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American  Dramatists  Series 

HAFED  THE   PERSIAN 

A     PLAY     IN 
FOUR  ACTS  BY 

NANNIE  SUTTON  PURDY 

//I 


BOSTON 

RICHARD  G.  BADGER 

THE  GORHAM  PRESS 


COPYRIGHT,  1920,  BY  NANNIE  S.  PURDY 
AH  Rights  Reserved 


Made  in  the  United  States  of  America 


The  Gorham  Press,  Boston,  U.  S.  A. 


HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 


CAST  OF  CHARACTERS 

HAFED,  Chief  of  the  Ghebers. 

AMIDAR, 

SERJUS, 

ROSIER, 


JAFEZ, 


-Prominent  in  the  Gheber  band. 


ALZARMAN, 
HUJIR, 

GUDARZ, 

OMAR,  Caliph  of  Arabia. 

AHMED  RAMAH,  A  Persian  Deserter,  now  General 

in  the  Arabian  forces. 
HASCHEM,    ~| 

rabian  General, 


HlLLAL, 

ABDALLAH,  et  al.f  Arabian  captives  of  the  Ghebers. 
BUFFOON,  A  Persian  at  the  Caliph's  Palace. 
DARILLA,  Daughter  of  Algeddin. 
ZENNA,  Waiting-woman  to  Darilla. 
ILYA,  A  Singing-Girl  at  the  Court  of  Arabia. 
Chamberlains,  Dance-Girls,  Musicians,  A  Body  of 
Ghebers,  Arabian  Soldiers,  etc. 


TIME:  The  Seventh  Century. 

ACT  I.     A  Persian  sea  coast. 
ACT  II. 

SCENE  I.     A  room  in  a  dilapidated  Persian  fort. 

SCENE  II.  The  Gheber  Fort— as  in  Scene  I. 
ACT  III.  An  apartment  in  the  Caliph's  palace. 
ACT  IV.  The  Caliph's  Court-yard. 


HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 


ACT  I 

SCENE:  A  Persian  sea  coast.  In  the  foreground, 
extending  back,  L.,  the  rocky  summit  of  a 
mighty  wall-like  cliff,  beetling  ove?  Lake 
Oman,  that  stretching  rearward  below,  R.,  re- 
flects a  sky  of  oriental  splendor.  Far  away 
on  the  cliff,  L.,  a  glimpse  of  an  ancient  fort, 
almost  hidden  by  boulders.  In  the  background, 
bordering  the  deep-dyed  horizon,  a  hazy, 
jagged  coast-line,  gleaming  like  mother-of- 
pearl,  fronted  by  a  sombre  purple-bronze  crag 
sprung  sheerly  up  from  the  sea,  and  flushed 
at  the  top  pale  flame-color,  as  with  a  crown 
of  innumerable  tiny  fires.  The  whole  scene 
steeped  rich  in  color. 

At  the  rise  of  the  curtain,  a  band  of  Ghebers, 
headed  by  AMIDAR,  SERJUS  and  ROSIER,  all 
equipped  with  bows  and  scimitars,  appear 
climbing  toilsomely  by  means  of  lassoes  over 
the  cliffside.  Scrambling  to  the  top,  AMIDAR 
springs  to  his  feet,  and  snatching  from  his  back 
a  flagstaff  with  folded  banner,  unfurls  and 
swings  it  aloft,  displaying  a  standard  of  Per- 


8  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

sia,  patterned  after  the  jewel-studded  leather 
apron  of  KAWEH. 

TIME  :     Sunset. 

Amidar  (Exultantly,  waving  his  banner) — 
Thus  shall  our  Bird  of  Victory  flap  his  wings  in 
the  eyes  of  Arabian  Vultures!  Vain  is  their  stolen 
high  perch  'twixt  the  sea  and  the  sky !  By  Kaweh ! 
this  night  they  should  fall,  had  they  crawled  to  the 
sun  for  a  roosting ! 

Serjus  (Noddinff  to  the  flag) — Ay,  but  hood 
the  Bird  yet — lest  the  Vultures  harry  him  mean- 
while;— yonder  they  huddle! 

(Points  to  the  fort.) 

Amidar — Fit  quarry  for  Persian  hawks — and  the 
fiend,  after!  In  an  hour,  every  road  will  be 
blocked,  and  yon  shackle  surrounded:  On!  On! 

Serjus — On  with  good-will!  But  I,  being 
squeezed  of  my  wind,  will  wait  here  for  HAFED. 
(Sinks  on  rock.) 

Robier — And  I,  out  of  pure  preference.  (Reclines 
near  SERJUS.) 

Amidar  (Scornfully) — Ha!  Our  Leader  found 
lagging?— 

Serjus — Ay, — he  who  nods  not  on  duty  found 
Algeddin  and  Ramah  were  not,  as  ye  thought,  ar- 
rived from  Medina!  As  for  yonder — (Indicating 
the  fort)  I  think  on  mine  oath,  Al  Hafed  disdains 
them,  and  for  very  pride  of  his  arms  forbids  us  to 
strike  till  the  Arabic  Cock-buzzard  comes  with  the 
fierce-beaked  Ramah ! 

Amidar  (Contemptuously,  turning  to  the  rest) 
— By  the  bones  of  your  sires! — all  that  plod  not 


(    ACT  I  9 

like  camels,  but  speed  to  the  goal  all-conquerors, — • 
follow!  and  stay  for  no  man!  (Hurries  on.)  (All 
follow  save  SERJUS  and  ROBIER.) 

Serjus  (Rising  and  pointing  after  the  band  dis- 
appearing)— Beware  of  the  Winged  Victory! 

Robier  (With  a  jerk  of  his  thumb) — Amidar? 
Wherefore? 

Serjus — In  that,  being  born  a  cock-sparrow  with 
tricks  of  aping  his  biggers  that  dangerously  swell 
him,  he  aims  to  make  plumes  of  his  pin-feathers! 

Robier — He  shall  but  fall  as  he  flies — and  no 
hurt  to  me! 

Serjus — Thee!  Atom  of  Paltriness! — art  thou 
the  Hope  of  lost  Persia?  The  Sword  that  shall 
lead  her  to  liberty? — Who  thought  of  thee? 

Robier — How! — The  Sword  is  afraid  of  a  cock- 
sparrow  ? — 

Serjus  (Seizing  him  hotly) — Trifler!  Gibest  at 
Hafed? 

Robier  (Springing  up,  hand  on  weapon) — Et 
less  touchy,  or  jest  shall  bear  earnest,  friend! 

Serjus  (Moodily, — releasing  his  hold) — Peace! 
— I  trust  you, — and  therefore,  watch  with  me!  Al 
HAFED,  eyes  front  to  the  foe,  overcomes  the  raised 
weapons  of  Hate,  but  sees  not  behind  him  the  bows 
of  Ambition  and  Jealousy, — nor  reckons  that  he 
who  with  ease  fells  an  ox,  may  die  by  the  dart  of 
the  puniest! 

Robier — What ! — Amidar ! — traitor? — Assassin? 

Serjus — Traitor — Assassin — are  wide  words,  Ro- 
bier; there  are  treacheries  black  as  the  pit,  before 
which  no  banner  is  lowered;  there  are  more  ways 
to  kill  than  by  the  mere  thrust  into  Nothingness, 
fewer  dead  men  would  be  walking  the  world 


io  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

with  full  five  senses.  (Vehemently f — his  face  work- 
ing with  emotion)  I  say  again, — Watch! 

Robier — Ay,  but  what  is  my  lord  Prince  to  thee, 
to  kindle  such  fears? 

Serjus  (Wheeling  and  flinging  out  his  arms 
passionately) — The  Sun  and  Moon  of  my  Universe! 
— Breath  in  the  nostrils — pulse  in  the  veins — Life 
— and  all  with  it !  Yea,  he  is  Youth  to  mine  Age — 
Spring  in  my  Winter — Child  of  the  Childless — my 
friend!  (Sinks  down  on  the  rock  again,  his  head 
bowed  on  his  bosom.) 

Robier — Man!  (Stepping  to  him,  lays  a  hand 
on  his  shoulder)  I  press  you  not — yet,  ere  I  sink 
in  this  quicksand  of  mystery,  know — Trifler  I  may 
be — Light-Head  I  am, — but  False-Heart  never  one 
found  me, — and  I  swear  what  doth  menace  our 
general  strikes  also  at  me.  If  it  ease  thee  to  name 
it, — speak ! 

Serjus  (Rising  hurriedly) — I  speak!  that  to- 
night, should  I  lie  dumb  yonder — (Points  to  fort) 
thou,  True-Hand,  mayst  still  balk  tie  trickster  who 
grasps  at  the  Helmet  of  Hafed! 

Robier — No  ass  hopes  to  hide  ears  under  it? — 

Serjus — Asses  hope  anything.  (His  gaze  broad- 
ening) I  look  back  some  seasons,  Robier,  to  a 
desert  fainting  at  noonday.  The  yellow  breast 
of  the  plain  seems  darkly  streaked  as  a  tiger,  for 
the  King  and  his  noblest  of  Persia,  betrayed — over- 
powered, fled  here  to  the  holes  in  the  hills,  to  rally 
and  die  for  this  land,  and  their  flight  was  written 
in  blood.  .  .  .  Like  a  star  shot  out  of  the  West, 
a  horseman  darts  in  the  open:  the  sun  leaps  from 
his  lance  to  fondle  his  mailed  breast  with  a  million 
kisses — for  he  whose  steed  spurns  the  earth  as  though 


ACT  I  ii 

it  would  sully  him,  comes  as  a  lord  among  men, 
or  the  wraith  of  a  Centaur.  .  .  .  Nearer  and 
nearer,  unslacked,  though  jaded  and  dust-blind,  he 
sweeps  like  a  wind  to  the  North,  bearing  good 
news  to  his  master, — the  brave — the  ill-fated  Isdi- 
gerd.  Khorassin — Hamadan — Rhe — crushed  un- 
der heel  by  Arabia,  have  risen  out  of  their  death- 
throes  to  strike  a  last  blow  for  their  country,  to 
break  the  base  bondage  of  Islam, — to  rescue  the 
throne  of  their  King, — to  free  him  or  perish!  .  .  . 
Suddenly,  out  on  the  sands,  horse  and  rider  pitch 
flat  in  the  dust.  The  proud  beast  that  went  as  if 
winged  lies  senseless  and  prone, — dying  for  faith 
to  his  master, — even  as  he  shall  for  his  .  .  .  King 
of  All  Heaven! — Why  should  the  noble  end  thus? 

Robier  (Impulsively) — You  knew  him — you 
loved  him? — 

Serjus  (With  emotion) — I  knew  him — I  loved 
him — well.  .  .  .  The  soldier,  quick  up,  distraught 
scans  the  waste;  a  trickle  of  water  may  stay  the 
life  that  is  flitting, — when  lo,  nigh  at  hand,  a  green 
fringe  shadows  the  rocks !  He  dashes  toward  them, 
— he  glimpses  Earth's  emerald  goblet  filled  full  of 
Heaven's  own  life-wine, — and  the  light  leaves  for- 
ever his  eyes,  his  scull  cloven  through  by  three 
out-springing  Arabs, — blood-lecherous  spies  of  the 
Caliph.  .  .  .  He  was  my  son,  Robier,  and  I  saw 
his  slaughter!  .  .  . 

Robier  (With  a  sympathetic  movement) — 
Alas! — poor  Serjus. — 

Serjus — I  had  followed,  unseen,  round-about,  lest 
some  peril  undo  him  who  scoffed  at  all  danger. 
But  the  empty  space  cheated  me,  and  lest  I  be 
mocked  in  the  beard  for  a  craven  beldam,  I  halted 


12  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

back  of  the  open  till  he  should  pass  over.  Fool 
that  I  was, — half  a  league  lay  between  us!  ...  I 
saw, — and  was  gripped  with  a  palsy;  ere  my  horse 
could  leap  forth,  another  sprung  over  the  slope, 
and  charged  on  the  Arabs.  Uprooted,  I  spurred 
madly  forward — the  earth  swayed  around  me, — 
forms  mingled — blades  flashed — one  glittering  shape 

in  a  river  of  blood  wavered  everywhere Then 

I  knew  nothing.  .  .  .  When  I  looked  next,  a 
stranger  kneeled  by  me.  My  lips  touched  water. 
A-nigh,  two  Arabs  stretched  dead,  with  their  horses 
whinnying  by  them;  the  third,  mounted,  was  fast 
disappearing.  What  matter? — my  world  had 
crumbled.  I  looked  from  its  splendid  ruin,  back 
to  him  who  had  succored  me.  ...  His  mien  and 
dress  were  not  ours,  and  as  he  bent  down,  a  jewel 
hid  in  his  vest  swung  loose  on  a  ribbon  of  France. 
Enough!  //  was  Hafed. 

Robier    (Aghast) — Hafed! 

Serjus — Born  Henri  de  Rohan — Frenchman  and 
Christian 

Robber — You  dream! — or  grief  hath  wrought 
madness — 

Serjus  (With  a  ivide  deprecating  gesture) — The 
old  answer  when  Truths  have  mastery !  What  time 
was  there  for  a  frenzy?  My  all  was  slain — The 
King  in  jeopardy — Persia  a  shambles.  Vengeance 
— Justice — Loyalty — sounding  their  clarions,  si- 
lenced the  whines  of  Creed  and  Custom.  ...  I 
crawled  to  my  knees,  and  besought  the  Frenchman 
and  Christian,  in  the  name  of  God  and  Oppression, 
to  forward  our  fight  for  life  and  liberty.  Say  that 
I  raved — or  that  Heaven  had  sent  us  a  liberator. — 
Not  twice  I  prayed,  ere  he  lifted  his  sword,  and 


ACT  I  13 

swore  by  fcs  graven  cross  to  wield  it  for  Persia! 
.  .  .  We  bore  my  hero's  body  to  the  hiding-place 
of  his  King, — finished  his  errand — and  spurred  to 
the  front  at  Hamadan  .  .  .  Rohan  the  Frenchman 
rode  there  Hafed  the  Persian, — unconquerable 
leader  of  our  cause. 

Robier — 'Tis  the  strangest  news  ever  reached 
these  ears!  And  now? 

Serjus  (Wheels,  intensely) — Now — The  King 
for  whom  we  dared  much  is  dead  at  the  hands  of 
a  hired  traitor;  jealousy  creeps — and  the  path  of 
Hafed  grows  perilous! 

Robier — It  leads  through  the  hearts  of  all  Per- 
sians  

Serjus — We  are  hot-heads,  all: — One  breath  of 
this  matter  would  start  yonder — (Pointing  to  the 
flame-tipped  crag  in  the  distance) — such  fires  as 
never  kindled  in  worship!  He  whose  Tri-une  re- 
ligion polluted  the  altars  he  saved, — though  be- 
fore them  he  kneel  to  our  Deity, — the  infidel 
stranger — dog  of  the  street, — usurping  the  lead  of 
our  patriots — (though  God  knows  none  there  con- 
tended him!) — What  were  his  portion  but  death 
— by  the  fires  he  outraged ! 

Robier — Never!     I  swear 

Serjus  (With  a  forbidding  gesture) — Be  not 
fooled Swear  but  to  shield  him ! — 

Robier  (Raising  his  hand) — That  too,  and 

Serjus  (Catching  his  arm  and  pointing) — Look! 
— By  the  Lord  above — women 

Robier — Arabians!  strayed  from  the  fort 

Quick! — to  the  cock-sparrow! 

(They  disappear  around  the  rocks  as  DARILLA 
appears  with  ZENNA,  R.) 


i4  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

Zenna  (As  DARILLA  lingers,  gazing  seaward)  — 
La,  la! — stopped  again,  Mistress?  If  you  see 
aught  strange  in  the  face  o'  sea-water,  dip  a  bowl- 
ful tomorrow  and  bend  elbows  a-top  till  it  sprout 
coral  and  flying-fish;  but  get  now  within!  (Mo- 
tioning to  the  ruins.) 

Darilla — In!  (Looks  toward  the  ruins,  shudder- 
ing)— To  vaults,  where  dark  walls  stifle  the  body 
and  dark  thoughts  stifle  the  heart !  Let  me  breathe 
God's  air  a  little  longer ! 

Zenna — Hoity-toity!  This  finnicky  mood  comes 
from  the  sun-glamor  yonder;  'tis  next  to  a  moon- 
rise  for  making  young  folks  fools. — By  the  bones 
of  my  grand-dam! — outdoors  or  in,  /  am  as  sound 
o'  wind  as  a  yearling  filly!  'Tis  time  you  were 
housed,  say  I;  what  if  your  father  should  meet  us? 

Darilla — 'Tis  a  far  road  to  Medina  ...  my 

father  comes  not  till  night, — and  tonight 

(Looks  again  at  the  water  and  shudders) — I  think 
he  will  not  chide  me.  (Approaching  the  waiting- 
woman)  Zenna!  dear,  good  Zenna — think  you  my 
father  would  ever  take  me  back  to  his  heart  if 
I  were  patient,  and  sought  hard  to  please  him? 

Zenna  (With  a  passionate  gesture) — Please  him! 
and  thou  turned  infidel?  Since  thou  hast  shut  ears 
to  the  voice  of  our  holy  Mohammed — may  his 
power  redeem  thee! — to  worship  with  Christian 
outcasts,  thou  hast  plunged  into  that  father's  heart 
a  dagger  which  each  day  thy  conduct  turns! 

Darilla   (Imploringly  )  — Zenna! 

Zenna  (Hotly) — 'Twere  not  enough — God  de- 
fend him! — his  old  age  should  be  vexed  with  this 
strife  in  the  land — that  he  must  leave  the  lap  of 


ACT  I  15 

Ease  in  his  own  home  to  smother  forever  the  fires 
of  these  heathen  idolaters;  a  sorer  strife  tears  his 
breast,  since  the  pearl  of  his  bosom  hath  dropped 
from  his  heart  to  the  mire  of  the  Nazarene  swine! 
— Heaven  scatter  them! 

Darilla — Zenna!  Zenna! —  So  bitter  against 
me?  Have  you  forgotten  the  babe  that  lay  on 

your  bosom,  having  no  mother  beside ?  When 

my  father  was  wroth,  hid  I  not  in  your  arms? 
You  shut  them  against  me? 

Zenna — Not  till  you  pray  and  pipe  blasphemous- 
ly. What ! — shall  I  mock  the  beard  of  the  prophet 
by  listing  to  hymns  of  one  you  call  "Holy  Virgin" 
and  "Mother  of  God"?  Go  to — you  should  pil- 
grimage to  Mecca  a-barefoot! 

Darilla — Then  I  have  lost  you,  and  am  all  alone! 

Zenna  (Caressing  her) — There,  there! —  Put 
up  lip  like  that,  and  I  am  beat  again.  Scold  thee 
I  will,  weep  for  thee  I  do, — but  set  me  down  for 
a  blockhead  whom  Allah  pardon ! — love  you  I  must, 
— willy-nilly.  So  —  (Coaxingly)  —  come  along 
and  taste  of  his  Highness'  supper.  A  good  meal, 
saith  the  adage,  is  a  weapon  against  care;  which  is 
sense  never  got  into  a  sunset.  Come! 

Darilla  (Embracing  her) — I  love  you — oh,  dear- 
ly I  love  you ! — but  I  cannot  return — yonder — yet ! 

I  should  suffocate!  If  you  knew (Chokes  back 

a  sob)  When  my  father  comes  back  tonight  with 
the  Emir,  Ramah, 

Zenna  (Interrupting) — We  shall  see  a  pair  that 
show  by  other  men  as  roaring  lions  beside  wild 
asses! 

Darilla — Ay — for    lions    rend    the    helpless! — 


16  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

God  forgive  me  to  speak  it  of  my  father!  When 
they  come, — do  you  know  what  my  father  demands 
of  me? 

Zenna — I  know  what  7  should,  in  his  place;  that 
you  show  forth  radiantly  prankt, — fresh  from  the 
musk-box,  and  spangled  with  jewels  like  a  new-burst 
rose,  as  becomes  the  daughter  of  Araby's  mightiest 
satrap,  and — (Courtesying  low) — the  most  beauti- 
ful Princess  on  earth.  Then,  when  you  came  to 
your  senses,  and  knelt  at  the  altars  of  Islam,  you 
should  straightway  espouse  the  noble  Prince 
Ramah 

Darilla  (Vehemently) — Oh,  no!  no!  You  have 
been  as  my  mother,  almost, — you  could  not  force 
me  to  the  arms  of  a  man  whom  I  fear! — whom  I 
loathe! 

Zenna — Allah  save  us! — an  evil  spell  is  upon  you! 
Had  I  such  a  lover,  I  warrant  there'd  be  no  airs! 
Stands  he  not  as  a  cypress  steepling  the  hill-top, — 
his  eyes  twin  eagles  cleaving  an  amber  cloud, — his 
beard,  both  Night  and  Moon-bow?  Yea, — dressed 
and  trapped,  withal,  like  a  sultan !  .  .  .  Bah !  Let 
a  maid  be  comely,  straight  turns  she  a  ninny!  Well, 
— and  what  did  your  gracious  father  deign  to  require 
of  you? 

Darilla — That  I  renounce  the  Christian  faith 

Zenna — Fatherly  desired!  Shall  he  see  you  in 
the  pit  and  plan  no  rescue? 

Darilla  (Chokingly) — And  pledge  myself  to  wed, 
as  soon  as  this  strife  is  over,  with  Ahmed  Ramah! 

Zenna — Excellently  considered !  Why  should  the 
handsome  Emir's  love  grow  baldheaded  before  mar- 
riage? 


ACT  I  17 

Darilla — Oh,  Nurse!  —  Nurse!  —  Soften  your 
heart  to  me !  I  must  promise  all  this,  or  tomorrow 
be  sent  away, — ay,  you  have  said  it, — an  outcast! 
I  shall  lose  my  own  father ! — God  help  me, — I  shall 
lose  even  you !  My  father  has  sworn  he  will  harbor 
no  infidel,  nor  a  daughter  who  thwarts  him! 

Zenna  (With  renewed  car-esses) — Tut,  tut, 
Chit!  Disobey  your  kind  father? — Flout  so  mag- 
nificent a  suitor?  What  are  you  thinking  of? 

Darilla  (Passionately) — Of  the  Emir! — and  how 
I  abhor  him! 

7*enna  (Starting  away  from  her) — You  are  mad! 

Darilla  (Smiling  faintly) — Nay,  only  nearly  so! 
(Turning  away  despairingly)  It  is  as  I  feared, — 
you  cannot  help  me.  Leave  me,  then,  here,  while 
you  go  about  supper ; — a  bursting  heart  is  better  out 
of  doors. 

Zenna — Leave  you! 

Darilla  (In  a  low  strained  tone) — If  you  have 
mercy! 

Zenna — ///  If  I  have  a  liver!  (Going)  Take 
your  way;  could  any  but  our  own  people  happen 
here,  I'd  not  be  such  a  fool.  (Pauses)  Let  thinking 
turn  you  less  stubborn,  mistress;  salt  your  discre- 
tion with  this:  you  have  two  to  reckon  with,  and 
methinks  it  were  better  for  a  maid  that  she  died 
than  live  to  scorn  Ahmed  Ramah!  (Goes.) 

Darilla  (To  herself,  looking  after  ZENNA) — / 
know!  I  know! — it  wetfe  better  that  she  died! 
( When  the  nurse  disappears,  DARILLA  stretches  he? 
arms  entreatingly ,  as  if  to  embrace  her,  then  drops 
them  hopelessly,  glances  shudderingly  at  the  sea,  and 
turning  her  back  to  it,  draws  from  her  bosom  a  small 


i8  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

gold  cross,  which  she  kisses  and  replaces;  then, 
kneeling  down  on  the  rocks,  she  prays  low  and 
tremulously  i — ) 

Mother  of  Mercy! — Lamp  of  Love — 

Tho'  winds  and  darkness  hide  from  me 

All  stars  of  Hope,  I  cry  to  thee — 

And  grope  through  Night  to  Light  above! 

I  pray  thy  pure  eyes  may  not  see 

How  scarred  and  dust-defiled  come  I, — 

But  lead,  O  Virgin  of  the  Sky, 

Where  thy  Sweet  Son  waits  pityingly; — 

Then,  Shepherd  of  all  Sheep  that  roam, 

Stretch  out  Thy  Hand,  and  draw  me  home! 

(As  she  rises,  her  face  shows  set  and  colorless. 
With  a  hurried  glance  around,  she  springs  to  the 
topmost  rock,  raises  her  arms  in  mute  appeal  to 
Heaven,  shuts  her  eyes  and  casts  herself  over  the 
cliff.  Almost  as  her  scream  rings  out,  HAFED,  bear- 
ing her  in  his  arms,  climbs  over  the  rocks.  DARILLA 
has  swooned,  but  appears  unhurt.  Bearing  her  to 
a  smooth  bit  of  ground,  he  snatches  off  his  scarf-belt, 
spreads  it  down,  and  lays  DARILLA  upon  it.  Draw- 
ing from  his  bosom  a  tiny  vial,  he  pours  some  drops 
through  her  lips,  replaces  the  bottle,  and  moving 
off,  watches  her.  DARILLA  revives,  half -rises,  sees 
him,  utters  a  faint  shriek,  and  falls  back.) 

Hafed  (Quietly,  not  moving) — Why  did  you  do 
that?  Have  I  a  dragon's-head ? 

Darilla  (Sitting  up,  agitated) — Nay,  but 

(Stops.) 

Hafed — Horns,  perhaps? 

Darilla   (Breathlessly) — The  peak  is  impassable 


ACT  I  19 

yonder — my  father  has  said  so.    How  came  you 
there? 

Hafed  (Showing  his  hands  and  the  lasso  he  car- 
ries)— Mainly  by  these  and  this. 

Darilla  (Her  voice  sinking) — I — I  thought  you 
— a  demon! — a  Gheber! 

Hafed  (Smiling  grimly) — You  preferred  to  be 
saved  by  the  Angel  Rizvan?  He  was  not  here! — 
(As  she  attempts  to  stand,  he  steps  forward,  and 
lifts  her  to  a  large  rock,  where  she  may  rest  com- 
fortably)— But  Devils  are  ever  at  hand. 

Darilla  (Impetuously) — Why — oh,  why — did 
you  save  me? 

Hafed — I  had  no  time  to  think. 

Darilla  (Astounded)— What!— Had  there  been 
time ! 

Hafed — Ay,  even  then,  perchance, — seeing  you 
are  a  woman, 

Darilla— Ah!— 

Hafed  (Calmly) — No  more  than  a  scratching 
cat, — not  worth  while  drowning. 

Darilla — Oh! — (Stepping  down  from  the  rock, 
and  drawing  herself  up,  proudly)  Sir! —  (Her  man- 
ner suddenly  changing)  Nay,  though  you  speak 
rudely,  you  have  meant  to  be  kind ; — I  wish  I  might 
thank  you, — but,  had  you  only  known! — I  am 
fainer  to  die  than  to  live.  (Turning  away  wearily) 
You  have  but  delayed  me;  I  must  die! 

Hafed — All  the  blooms  of  the  garden  must  fall. — 
(Approaching  her, — more  gently)  But  for  you,  the 
buds  are  still  sheathed ;  the  sun  is  new-risen,  and  the 
birds  in  your  heart  should  be  singing.  Why  are 
you  miserable? 

Darilla — I? —     (Clasping  her  hands  in  anguish) 


20  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

Oh,  Heaven ! — how  help  it  ? — when  my  father  can- 
not love  me,  and  my  lover,  I  cannot  love ! 

Hafed  (Starting,  frowns} — Love?  Heaven  and 
Earth! — 'tis  the  curse  of  the  world:  the  scourge  of 
a  thousand  thongs!  You  reach  for  the  lash? 

Darilla — I  detest  Ahmed  Ramah! — (HAFED 
starts) — He  is  cruel  and  vengeful;  but  my  father 
is — my  life ;  losing  him,  there  is  nothing  for  me  but 
to  die.  (Going)  Farewell,  sir! 

Hafed  (Overtaking  her) — By  Mithras! — you 
go  not  thus — a  wounded  hare  to  the  hunters !  Let 
me  speak  with  these  two ! — It  will  go  hard  with  me, 
but  your  gods  of  good  and  evil  shall  swear  peace 
with  you ! 

Darilla  (Hurriedly) — Never!  You  little  know 
them My  father,  Prince  Said  Algeddin,  war- 
ring now  with  the  Ghebers, — you  have  heard  of 
his  valor? — 

Hafed  (A  light  flashing  into  his  eyes) — Ay, — 
latterly,  much! 

Darilla — Then  you  know  'twere  but  vain  to 
clash  with  him;  as  for  the  Emir — he  is  a  monster 
nigh  dread  as — (Looking  around  fearfully,  lowers 
her  voice)  Hafed  himself! 

Hafed  (Forcibly)— As  Hafed!— 

Darilla  (Raising  her  hand  warningly) — The 
Gheber-chief, — a  human  tiger,  called  Fire-Fiend. 
(Without  seeing  his  change  of  expression,  shudder- 
ing, crosses  herself)  Ah,  hush ! — I  am  like  the  chil- 
dren who  cry  at  his  name 

Hafed  (Loudly)— What? 

Darilla  (Creeping  nearer) — Hush,  pray! — 'Tis 
whispered  his  fathers  were  genii! — that  he  passes  un- 
known, save  his  steps  sear  the  grass 


ACT  I  21 

Hafed  (Involuntarily  glancing  behind  him) — 
Ha! 

Darilla  (In  a  half -whisper,  clutching  his  arm)  — 
•you  see f 

Hafed — A  fieldful  of  lilies!  (As  she  draws  back 
puzzled)  Ay,  more: — that  the  babbling  of  fools  and 
burrowing  of  moles  crack  the  best  ground!  (Ab- 
ruptly) Can  you  trust  me,  or  no? 

Darilla  (Timidly) — I  think  so, — there  are  no  lies 
in  your  face. 

Hafed  (Bitterly,  half -turning  away) — You  are 
fresh  in  the  world;  I  have  known  a  woman's  eyes 
speak  such  as  would  gainsay  the  writ  of  prophets, 
and  shove  Truth  herself  in  a  corner; — falsehoods 
a  false  tongue  choked  on, — yet  the  face  was  the  face 
of  a  vestal!  (Facing  her)  Still,  for  your  sake, — 
(Gives  her  a  scrutinizing  look) — despite  you  look 
somewhat  vestalic, — I'll  speak  with  Algeddin 

Darilla  (Retreating) — Nay,  I  pray  you!  You 
cannot,  and — hark! —  (Voices  are  heard  in  ap- 
proach) Oh,  go! — they  are  coming! — My  father — 
the  Emir! 

Hafed  (Hand  on  sabre,  advancing) — Fortune 
smiles;  I  will  meet  them. 

(DARILLA  sinks  down  in  despair  by  the  rocks, — 
being  hid,  as  ALGEDDIN  and  RAMAH,  with  several 
armed  attendants  emerge  'round  a  boulder.) 

Algeddin  (Stopping  at  sight  of  HAFED  some  paces 
off,  waiting) — Ha!  (Clutches  the  Emirs  arm)  By 
all  fiends — the  Gheber! 

Ramah  (Snatching  out  his  sword) — Then,  demon 
or  man,  I'll  at  him!  (He  rushes  at  HAFED,  who, 
with  a  powerful  swoop  of  his  sword,  at  one  blow, 
disarms  him.) 


22  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

(DARILLA  starts  up  with  a  scream,  ALGEDDIN, 
amazed,  springs  to  her.) 

Hafed  (As  RAMAH  leaps  to  his  weapon) — Re- 
member the  words  of  Rustem:  (Points  down  with 
his  sword,  significantly)  "The  earth  is  dry  and  cold: 
the  air  of  Heaven  is  soft  and  balmy!" 

Algeddin  (Hastily) — Hold!  (Low  to  the  EMIR) 
Forget  you  the  Master?  (Motioning  DARILLA  aside, 
— with  ill-suppressed  fury  to  HAFED)  A  fathers 
wrath  waits  on  the  word  of  his  sovereign!  By  su- 
preme command,  know  then,  Infidel, — the  King  of 
Kings,  Omar  of  Arabia  and  Persia 

Hafed  (Imperturbably)-The  King  of  Thieves- 
Robber  let  loose  on  Persia: — straighten  his  titles! 

Algeddin  (As  RAMAH  makes  a  violent  gesture) — 
Forbear!  ( To  HAFED  )  But  that  we  carry  the  word 
of  our  august  ruler,  our  blades,  insolent  Heretic, 
ere  now  had  stilled  thee!  In  the  name  of  the  most 
illustrious  Caliph,  we  demand  fair  hearing. 

Hafed  (While  DARILLA,  amazed,  looks  from 
one  to  the  other) — In  whose  name  ye  will, — by 
Sun  and  Moon! — no  shifty  palaver  shall  cover  his 
villainous  deeds, — whether  the  open  spoiling  of  Per- 
sia or  the  secret  murder  of  King  Isdigerd! 

Algeddin  (Trembling  with  rage,  to  RAMAH) — 
Speak  on !  Shall  this  chewer  of  worm-wood  smear 
me  with  spittle  forever? 

Ramah  (Struggling  for  control) — His  Mighti- 
ness, the  Supreme  Emperor  of  the  Faithful, — whose 
shadow  endure! — deploring  his  subjects'  bloodshed, 
has  charged  us  with  certain  commands,  to  be  on 
sight  delivered  to  you.  We,  therefore,  as  proxy 
for  his  most  illustrious  Majesty,  warn  you  all  re- 
bellion must  cease,  or  be  crushed  out  most  direly. 


ACT  I  23 

Hafed  (Leaning  quietly  on  his  sword) — Say  to 
His  Mightiness — and  his  entire  sum  of  magnificence: 
— If  it  be  rebellion  for  men  of  unquellable  courage 
to  battle  against  hopeless  odds  for  the  peace  of  their 
homes,  the  freedom  of  their  lives,  the  faith  of  their 
fathers,  their  country's  happiness  and  their  soul's 
honor, — we  are,  and  will  be  to  our  last  breaths — 
rebels! 

Ramah  (Contemptuously) — A  fool's  bravado! 
What  is  your  handful  to  the  hosts  of  Omar?  A 
dust  in  the  whirlwind ! 

Hafed — Ay,  patriots  are  few  in  Persia,  since 
some  over-cautious  souls  turned  traitor! 

Ramah  (Flushing — and  exasperated) — What 
then  hope  ye,  rebelling  ? 

Hafed— Freedom! — Or  along  her  last  march 
from  this  land  to  the  sky,  to  follow  her  banner! 
For,  by  the  Monarch  that  reigns  there! — we  are 
well  agreed, — rather  than  live  in  chains,  to  die  in 
liberty ! 

(The  EMIR  motions  impatiently  to  ALGEDDIN, 
and  receives  from  him  a  parchment  bearing  the  seal 
of  Arabia.) 

Ramah  (Brandishing  the  paper) — Behold!  Our 
ever-glorious  Emperor,  with  incredible  magnanimity, 
offers  you  life  in  his  favor, — your  past  forgotten  in' 
a  future  allegiance  to  the  true  faith  and  its  De- 
fender; for  all  that  kneel  with  you,  free  amnesty! 
What  say  you  now? 

Hafed  (Erect  and  strongly) — I  say  Caliph  Omar 
is  a  crowned  Brigand  who  drove  millions  of  rogues 
to  seize  a  King's  throne,  and  bought  the  King's  life 
of  traitors  by  jingling  of  coin!  (The  EMIR,  winc- 
ing, looks  down.  HAFED  advances  a  step)  I  say, 


24  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

Black  Raven  of  Persia, — or  with  your  changed 
feathers,  mayhap,  White  Owl  of  Arabia! — 111  not 
be  one  of  the  sleek  slaves  to  stoop  to  the  Moslem 
while  a  sun  shines  in  the  heavens,  or  the  earth  holds 
room  for  a  handful  of  ashes ! 

Algeddin  (Thrusting  forward  and  pointing  to 
HAFED'S  cap) — Then  pluck  down  your  Simurgh- 
plume,  and  cast  it  in  some  fiend's  fire, — for  without 
magic,  you  die!  (With  an  arm-sweep  toward 
HAFED — to  his  attendants,  loudly)  Allah  Acbar! 

(With  raised  scimitars,  they  rush,  shouting,  at 
HAFED.  In  the  same  instant,  HAFED,  blowing  a 
loud  whistle,  a  body  of  armed  GHEBERS  leap  over 
the  rocks,  and  confront  them.  The  ARABS  recoil 
in  dismay.) 

Algeddin  (Aside  to  an  ARAB)—  Quick! — Masud 
with  the  troops! 

(The  ARAB  speeds  out  unnoticed.) 

Hafed  (Having  signed  his  men  to  draw  back)  — 
My  lords,  such  magic  is  ominous:  return  to  your 
capital!  Arabia  sits  at  her  feast,  draining  the  red 
wine  of  Persia  and  deeming  her  stronghold  impreg- 
nable:— let  her  watch  the  Omnipotent  Writing,  lest 
under  the  walls  of  her  Babylon  a  river  be  turned ! 

Algeddin  (Disdainfully) — Your  Persian  parables 
are  flimsy  fabric,  much  tinseled 

Hafed — For  the  maid's  sake,  I  warn  you  plainer: 
— start  with  her  now  for  Medina !  You  shall  have 
escort ; —  here — at  this  moment — is  danger  ! 

Algeddin  (Wheeling,  derisively) — Ay, — when  I 
sucked  mother's  milk,  there  was  danger  of  choking! 

Darilla  (Falling  at  the  feet  of  ALGEDDIN)  — 
Dear  father — believe  him!  Let  us  get  Zenna  and 
go! 


ACT  I  25 

Algeddin  (As  the  EMIR  bends  to  raise  her  and  she 
shrinks  from  him  with  aversion) — Up,  Moon-Face! 
— Know  you  what  you  say? 

Darilla  (Imploringly) — I  know — I  feel — this 
man  would  befriend  us! — that  he  speaks  as  a  true 
man  and  soldier— — 

A  Igeddin    ( Menacingly )  — Silence  ! 

Hafed  (Sternly — interposing) — Softly! — for  her 
sake  you  live! — 

Algeddin  (Fingering  the  hilt  of  his  dagger, — to 
DARILLA) — Now  by  God  the  Creator! — how  ye 
met — what's  between  you — I  know  not, — but  you 
hold  not  us  both  by  the  hand !  ( Grasping  BARILLA'S 
wrist)  Is  it  me,  girl,  or  him? 

Darilla  (Striving  to  throw  herself  on  his  breast) 
— Thee!  Thee!  Oh,  when  was  it  other? 

Hafed  (Aside,  folding  his  arms) — Never,  one  of 
my  mind! 

Algeddin  (Keeping  her  at  arms  length) — Wait! 
Choose  your  ways  here : — You  accept  the  true  faith, 
and — (Glances  meaningly  at  the  EMIR) — good  for- 
tune that  waits  you? 

Darilla  (Blanching) — I  accept — Heaven  help 
me! — the  faith — I  believe  to  be  true — (Draws  from 
her  bosom  the  cross,  and  holds  it  up,  tremblingly) 
— but  not — (With  a  shuddering  glance  at  RAMAH) 
— the  good  fortune,  you  mean ! 

Algeddin  (Hurling  her  violently  toward  HAFED) 
— Then  back  to  your  infidel  lover!  You  mock  me 
no  more!  (The  GHEBERS  start  threateningly.) 

Hafed  (Who  barely  saves  her  from  jailing — half- 
dr awing  his  sword) — By  Heaven! — you  goad  me! 
Think  you  we  crawled  there — (Points  to  the  preci- 


26  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

pice) — like  beetles  and  hung  there  like  bats  for  a 
love-tryst?  Our  work  was  with  you! 

A  Gheber  (Fiercely  flourishing  his  sword) — Ay) 
— Vengeance  for  Persia  and  Isdigerd!  Why  hold 
we  back? 

Others  (Fiercely  flourishing  their  swords)-— 
Death  to  the  Moslems!  Death  to  Assassins! 

Hafed — One  moment,  Comrades!  (To  ALGED- 
DIN) — Your  child's  love  for  you  was  a  lily  shot  up 
in  our  war-path ;  to  spare  it,  I  held  off  a  battle 

Ramah  (Mockingly )  — Battle, — ha ! 

Hafed  (Disregarding  him — to  ALGEDDIN) — 
Swear  to  treat  the  maid  well,  and  still  you  shall 
go  hence  to  safety. 

Algeddin — Swear  terms  to  thee,  impious  brag- 
gart? Then,  may  the  fiend's  arrow  strike  me! 
Lead  on  thy  troop  against  seven! 

Hafed — You  are  numbered  and  trapped  like 
foxes:  the  troops  now  hid  in  your  hold — (ALGED- 
DIN and  RAMAH  start  and  change  color) — are 
surrounded:  mine  wait  but  a  signal 

Algeddin  and  Ramah  (Springing  forward  al- 
most together) — 'Tis  false! 

Algeddin  (Trying  to  reach  HAFED) — Save  your- 
self, Boaster! 

Hafed  (Fencing  him  off)— Back,  Arab!  Why 
tempt  me? 

Darilla  (Frantically,  clasping  the  arm  of  her 
father) — Father!  Father! — for  my  sake! 

Algeddin  (Frenziedly,  aiming  a  thrust  at  her) — 
Thou,  again? — 

Hafed  (Who  strikes  up  ALGEDDIN'S  dagger,  frus- 
trating the  blow) — Madman! — Shame!  Shame! — 
(ALGEDDIN,  reeling  back  from  the  shock,  falls  on 


ACT  I  27 

the  sword  of  RAMAH,  who  has  aimed  at  HAFED. 
Groans  mingle  with  cries.) 

Algeddin  (Writhing  in  the  arms  of  EMIR, — 
to  the  same) — Avenge  me! 

Ramah  (Lifting  his  arm) — I  swear  by  the  Lord 
of  the  Kaaba! 

Darilla  (Wildly,  leaning  to  her  father)— Strike! 
Strike!  Would  you  leave  me?  (As  ALGEDDIN 
motions  her  off,  a  vast  tumult  sounds  in  the  dis- 
tance. The  ARAB  dispatched  by  ALGEDDIN  runs  up 
breathless. ) 

The  Arab— Fly \  Fly!  All  is  lost  here!— The 
Persians (Sees  ALGEDDIN  and  breaks  off,  ter- 
rified. The  GHEBERS  spring  forward  shouting  tri- 
umphantly.) 

Hafed  (Ringingly,  over  their  cries  and  the  dis- 
tant clamor) — Men! — By  your  manhood,  put  the 
maid  safe!  Man  a  boat! —  (Several  GHEBERS 
spring  over  the  rocks, — others  turn  to  assist  him.) 

Hafed  (To  Darilla)—  Come!— Co urage!— we'll 
save  you ! — 

Darilla  (Motioning  to  her  father) — Never! — 
Never! — from  him! 

Hafed  (Imperiously,  as  the  clamor  increases) — 
Come,  I  say! — 'Twere  your  death — I'll  not  leave 
you  here! 

Ramah  (To  DARILLA) — Why  shrink  from  such 
gracious  protection?  No  other  is  left  you! 

Hafed  (As  DARILLA  seems  stunned) — For  Life 
and  Honor's  sake, — hasten! 

Algeddin  (Summoning  a  ghastly  strength, — to 
DARILLA) — Ay,  go  with  your  Beast,  silly  Beauty! 
(Points  to  the  GHEBERS.)  Your  Guard  of  Honor 
is  waiting — Jackals — Leopards — Hyenas !  Go — 


28  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

light  a  new  blaze  to  his  fire-god!  (Slips  from  the 
EMIR'S  arms,  heavily.) 

Hafed  (Desperately  to  DARILLA, — the  noise  ever 
swelling) — For  the  God  you  believe  in,  come! 

Darilla  (Heedlessly, — flinging  herself  in  an  agony 
down  by  Algeddin) — Oh,  live!  live!! — and — what 

mean  you? —  These  Persians (Lifts  her  hand 

to  her  brow  confusedly.) 

Algeddin  (With  a  last  effort,  raising  himself)  — 

I  mean (Points  with  a  look  of  hatred  to 

HAFED) — he, — your  new  hero — has  killed  me! 

(HAFED,  starting,  dumbfounded,  meets  the  horrified 
stare  of  DARILLA.) 

Algeddin  (His  voice  hollow  and  gasping) — That 
your  Israfil, — silver-tongued  angel — and  henceforth 
— your  only — protector — (Grins  horribly) — is  your 
country's — arch-foe;  the  world's — arch-devil!  .  .  . 
Cut-throat — butcher — fire-fiend — Reaper — of  Hate 

— and  curses — God ! — 'tis  my  daughters — lover 

He— Hafed— the  Gheber!  (Dies.) 

(DARILLA,  with  a  cry  of  terror,  falls  swooning 
across  his  body.  The  din  in  the  distance  deepening, 
PERSIANS  and  ARABS  rush  shouting  together, — save 
the  EMIR,  bent  over  the  dead  man,  and  HAFED,  who 
standing  an  instant,  as  if  paralyzed  by  the  sight  of 
DARILLA,  suddenly  snatches  her  up  in  his  arms,  and 
hurrying  to  the  cliff-side,  begins,  thus  burdened,  its 
perilous  descent.) 

CURTAIN 


ACT  II 

SCENE  I 

SCENE:  A  room  in  a  dilapidated  Persian  fort.  In 
a  niche,  L.,  a  stone  altar,  studded  with  dim- 
burning  torches.  On  the  right,  gathered  around 
a  small  table  bearing  a  platter  of  fruit  and  a 
wine-jug,  a  dozen  or  more  GHEBERS,  loung- 
ing on  rude  stools  and  benches,  are  munching 
or  drinking.  At  the  right,  left,  and  center- 
rear  are  entrances.  At  right-rear,  two  small 
windows  give  glimpses,  as  from  a  great  height, 
of  blue  low-lying  water  and  a  far,  bright  coast- 
line. 

TIME  :     The  next  day. 

First  Soldier  (Flourishing  in  one  hand  the  plat- 
ter; in  the  other,  the  jug) — Figs,  and  scant  meed 
of  Moscalla! — But  he  that  remains  then  unfilled, 
may  surfeit  on  Conquest!  (Raising  a  goblet) 
Drink — to  the  Despot's  down-fall! —  (Cheers: 
they  drink) — Drink — Confusion  to  Islam! — 
(Cheers:  they  drink) — Drink — to  last  night's  vic- 
tory!—  (Cheers:  they  drink) — Drink — To  Persia 
and  Hafed!—  (Cheers:  all  drink.) 

Second  Soldier  (Springing  up) — Now,  by  the 
29 


30  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

immortal  Hydarnes! — he  that  pledges  lord  Hafed 
drinks  to  the  despot's  down-fall, — Islam's  confu- 
sion— Persia  and  Victory!  Gods  of  the  Greeks! — 
when  he  had  put  the  girl  safe,  the  thieves  sprawled 
down  in  his  path  till  earth  showed  redder  than 
heaven  where  the  sun  died! 

Third  Soldier  (As  their  cups  are  fefilled) — Ay, 
twine  for  our  Lady  o'  Victory  necklets  of  rubies ! — 
whose  diadem  goldenly  flames  with  the  fall  of  Al- 
geddin, — the  capture  of  Ahmed  Ramah ! 

Fourth  Soldier — And  what,  O  Sirouz,  concerning 
the  gem  of  the  diadem  ? — the  Arabic  maid  who  was 
smuggled  from  sight  at  the  first  din  of  battle? 

First  Soldier — A  fitting  reward  for  the  conqueror : 
covet  her  not — she  is  Hafed's. 

Fourth  Soldier — Nay,  by  this  hand !— Such  treas- 
ure is  settled  by  lot 

Third  Soldier — Your  lot  would  be  settled  full 

soon  did  you  carry  this  further- (There  is  a 

burst  of  rude  laughter.) 

Fourth  Soldier  (Springing  up, — hotly) — By 
Ahramazd ! — I  yield  her  not  dumbly — I  have  heard 
her  speak,  and  the  nightingales  do  but  mock  her; 
she  herself  shall  decide  us!  (Starts  to  go.) 

First  Soldier — Soft,  soft,  O  too-ready  lover !  The 
maid's  door  is  held  by  he-dragons  without  and  a 
she-one  within!  (More  laughter  and  gibes  at  the 
FOURTH  SOLDIER.) 

Fourth  Soldier — By  whose  order? 

First  Soldier — PRINCE  HAFED'S. 

Fourth  Soldier — Destruction!  The  bird  was  caged 

quickly Has  no  sugar  passed  through  the 

bars? 

First    Soldier — Thou    knowest,    most    scurrilous 


i  ACT  II  31 

Fowler,  AL  HAFED  has  ne'er  crossed  his  threshold 
since  we  returned  hither;  that  Hujir  and  Gudarz 
have  been  constantly  with  him  in  conference:  that 
for  thee  or  any  man  the  guards  of  her  door  are 
quite  incorruptible — {Springing  up  and  whack- 
ing the  FOURTH  SOLDIER  on  the  head  with  the 
empty  platter} — that  the  figs  are  all  eaten, — thy 
betters  half-starved, — and  except  thou  go  forage  for 
food  thou  shalt  die  like  a  slave  of  a  cudgeling! 
{All  spring  up,  and  with  laughter  and  shouts,  be- 
labor him  with  goblets  and  platter's,  clear  out  of 
the  room.  At  the  door,  R.,  they  are  met  by  SERJUS 
and  ROSIER,  leading  in  RAMAH,  bound  and  blind- 
folded.) 

The  Guards — Way  for  him  summoned  by 
HAFED  ! 

A  Soldier  (Mockingly, — to  his  comrades) — 
Way! — Way!  for  the  Owl  to  the  gallows-tree! 
Ha!— Ha!— Ha!  Ha!— Ha!— Ha!— Ha!  (They 
hustle  past,  jeering  as  the  trio  enter.) 

Serjus  (Unbandaging  the  EMIR'S  eyes  and  mo- 
tioning, with  mock  ceremony,  to  a  bench,  pushed 
up  by  ROBIER) — Repose  is  sweet: — Will  the  il- 
lustrious Emir, — Past  Prince  of  Persia,  Now  of 
Arabia,  and  Would-Be  of  any  Country  that  paid 
more, — rest,  and  digest  his  incomparably — new — 
Koran  ? 

Ramah  (Ignoring  the  motion) — Dog!  Free  me 
of  these — (With  a  tug  at  his  bonds) — lend  me  a 
stave — and  you  shall  have  rest  forever ! 

Serjus  (While  ROBIER  takes  up  his  post  at  the 
door) — My  lord  jingles  the  keys  of  Paradise,  but 
I  and  this  blade  have  more  work  to  do  ere  we  come 
there!  (Feels  of  his  weapons  edge  reflectively.) 


32  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

Ramah — Then  to  it,  hound!  I  am  tightly  tied, 
and  I  fear  not  the  devil! 

Hafed  (Entering,  R.) — The  better  fortune;  he 
suffers  twice  who  anticipates — and  you — may  not 
go  to  your  due  directly.  (Motions  the  GUARDS  to 
retire. ) 

Ramah  (Fiercely) — Your  wit  is  well-weaponed, 
Sir  Gheber;  had  I  the  dagger  your  villains  last 
night  snatched  from  me,  I  would  answer  you 
pointedly! 

Hafed  (Drawing  a  dagger  from  his  belt) — Let 
this  replace  it,  when  it  unbinds  you — thus!  (Cuts 
the  cords  from  the  EMIR'S  arms,  and  offers  the 
dagger. ) 

Ramah  (Amazed,  snatching  the  weapon  and 
drawing  back  suspiciously) — I  am  taken — why  set 
a  trap  ? 

Hafed — To  draw  the  truth  from  you,  Ramah, 
without  any  compulsion.  (As  the  EMIR  stands, 
hand  on  dagger,  watching  him) — Will  your  Ex- 
cellence sit? 

Ramah  (Sitting  guardedly,  while  HAFED  seats 
himself  opposite) — Compulsion  or  no,  'tis  useless 
to  speak  of  our  plans  or  resources;  I  am  still  Mus- 
sulman ! 

Hafed — If  it  teaches  you  honor,  the  conversion 
is  fortunate.  (As  RAMAH  starts  savagely) — Pray, 
O  Excellence,  sit!  (The  EMIR  hesitates,  then  dog- 
gedly reseats  himself).  Could  you  for  once,  and 
to  save  your  head,  act  honestly?  (The  EMIR  half 
rises.)  Nay,  remain  seated,  /  beg! 

Ramah  (Thrusting  the  half-dfawn  dagger  back 
in  his  belt,  sarcastically) — Do  me  the  honor  to 
think  so!  What  then? 


,  ACT  II  33 

Hafed  (Smiling  slightly) — Then — instead  of  the 
fate  deserved  of  all  traitors,  and  decreed  by  the 
stars  for  you  finally,  you  would  go  back  free  to 
your  Emperor, — with  even  some  color  of  credit. 

Ramah — Proceed,  O  Rewarder  of  Virtue! 

Hafed  (Gravely) — I  shall  seek  your  Caliph's  pro- 
tection at  once  for  the  daughter  of  his  dead  gen- 
eral: also, — my  men  being  prejudiced  against  en- 
tering His  Majesty's  capital, — I  must  ask  of  him  a 
suitable  escort — not  more  than  six  persons — for  the 
maid  and  her  woman  from  hence  to  Medina. 

Ramah — You  are  mad! — or  you  mock  me! — 
Fling  away  the  prize  in  your  grasp  ? — Darilla? 

Hafed  (Coldly) — These  two  must  go  quickly 
to  safety.  He  whose  right  hand  was  Algeddin 
would  seem  their  best  guardian, — and  you  whose 
life,  twice  forfeit,  is  sworn  to  Algeddin's  cause, — 
you  shall  be  my  ambassador. 

Ramah — //  But  if  I  decline,  O  self-crowned 
Lord  of  the  Universe? 

Hafed — You  will  not,  O  Prince  of  Discretion! 
In  fact,  you  live  but  for  this.  Prove  worthy  the 
charge,  and  your  life  will  be  saved,  though  it  sprout 
for  the  Mower  fresh  villainies: — swerve  from  faith 
but  a  hair's  breadth,  and  vengeance  shall  find  you, 
though  you  hide  in  the  mantle  of  Omar! 

Ramah — He  shall  earn  life,  indeed,  who  un- 
scathed sues  favors  for  Omar's  defter!  (Suddenly 
approaching  HAFED)  O,  Blind  to  your  Interests! 
— kneel  with  me — say  only,  La  Ilaha 

Hafed  (Rising  quickly) — Save  breath!  Is  your 
monarch  so  base  you  need  more  than  tell  him  Alged- 
din is  dead  and  his  daughter  the  Gheber's  captive? 
But  mark  well,  O  Emir, — he  that  blots  by  a  breath 


34  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

the  scroll  where  the  maid's  name  is  written,  shall 
soon  cease  to  breathe,  though  he  lie  on  the  Caliph's 
bosom ! 

Ramah  (Springing  up, — Scornfully) — Yet  you 
love  her  not!  Bah! — the  sun  never  shone  on  your 

birth You  dropped  from  a  waning  moon  and 

froze  in  mid-air!  (Meaningly)  Strange  chance 
for  a  Persian  ! 

Hafed  (Suppressing  a  start — firmly) — Not 
stranger,  great  Emir,  than  that  of  the  Persian  who 
lately  turned  Arab!  Less  strange  than  this  chance 
for  his  life.  .  .  .  You  accept  it? 

Ramah — What  else  ?  At  needs,  I  should  pay  the 
fiend's  price:  Life  is  Life!  Let  me  out  of  this  hole, 
— give  me  boat  or  horse,  and  point  my  direction, — 
since  we  got  here  the  devil  knows  how ! 

Hafed — So  be  it:  your  guides  will  explain  how 
the  Caliph's  envoys  may  reach  us.  (Giving  a  ring) 
This  insures  their  safety.  On  the  day  the  two 
women  leave  here  with  Omar's  pledge  of  protec- 
tion I  release  all  Arabian  captives,  provided — the 
Caliph's  escort  includes  not  Prince  Ahmed  Ramah! 

Ramah  (Going) — Scorpion! — why  not  he? 

Hafed  (Bowing  low,  and  again  half  smiling)  — 
Your  excellence  will  appreciate,  the  best  of  us  have 
our  whims!  (Steps  to  the  door  and  raps.  The 
two  GUARDS  re-enter.) 

Hafed — The  Emir  will  start  for  Medina: — 
show  him  the  pass,  see  him  safely  off,  and  report 
to  me. 

Ramah  (Stopping  on  his  way  out) — Grant  me 
first,  three  words  with  my  sister's  husband,  Abdal- 
lah, — that  I  bear  her  some  message  of  comfort. 

Hafed  (To  the  GUARDS) — Let  them  speak  brief- 


ACT  II  35 

ly  and  privily, — ye  and  the  door-keepers  in  sight. 
(To  RAMAH)  And  you,  noble  Emir,  would  bet- 
ter not  finger  the  dagger;  your  guides  are  some 
prone  to  be  hasty.  ( The  EMIR  slowly  lets  fall  his 
hand  from  the  weapon,  darting  a  look  full  of  venom 
at  HAFED.  As  the  trio  go  out,  SERJUS  contrives 
to  pass  HAFED.) 

Serjus  (Low) — Forbid! — he  means  mischief! 

Hafed  (Low) — Let  him  do  none: — hasten!  (As 
they  pass  out,  HAFED  opens  a  door,  R.)  Lustam! — 
(A  guard  enters.) 

Hafed — What  of  the  maid  ? 

Guard — She  is  even  at  hand,  with  her  woman. 

Hafed — Lead  them  in.  (The  GUARD  retires,  to 
reappear  with  DARILLA  and  ZENNA.  DARILLA 
looks  pale  and  grief -stricken'.  ZENNA,  terrified, 
sobbing,  resentful.) 

Hafed  (Pointing  the  GUARD  to  rear  door)-— 
Stand  yonder!  ( GUARD  moves.) 

Zenna  (Dropping  hysterically  on  her  knees  and 
clinging  to  DARILLA) — Allah  save  us! — here  we 
are,  in  the  lions'  den !  Mercy ! ! — What  will  be, 
will  be! 

Hafed  (4pproaching  DARILLA,  gently) — When 
you  are  free  of  the  water-spout,  I  pray  a  word  with 
you. 

Darilla  (To  Zenna) — Rise! — Calm  yourself,  my 
poor  Zenna — (To  HAFED, — her  voice  all  a-quiver) 
— Sir,  I  am  ready  to  listen,  but  since — since  last 
night, — my  ears  seem  cracking  with  sounds  that 
fill  my  sick  brain  to  bursting; — I  crave  all  your 
patience 

Hafed  (Unconsciously  moving  toward  her,  with 
great  gentleness) — And  all  my  patience  is  yours! 


36  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

(DARILLA,  raising  her  eyes  to  look  at  him,  drops 
them  quickly  to  cover  her  tears.) 

Hafed  (As  though  touched  by  the  sight  of  her) — 
I  would  gladly  bring  you  some  balm  of  magical 
soothing,  but  this  side  the  stars,  he  called  the  Heart- 
Healer  is  winged  like  a  bird,  and  they  travel  far 
who  find  him.  .  .  .  (As  she  makes  a  despairing 
gesture)  Yet  be  not  so  wretched! — Even  now 
means  are  shaping  to  render  your  state  less  intoler- 
able ;  you  shall  soon  be  returned  to  your  people 

Zenna  (Shrilly)—  IT  ah— ah-ahl— Then  /  shall  be 
butchered! — Mohammed! — he  parts  us! 

Hafed  (Beckoning  the  GUARD  at  the  door) — 
Take  this  person  out  until  summoned.  (She  is  led 
away,  shrieking  in  terror.) 

Hafed  (As  before  to  DARILLA) — Your  kindred 
will  tenderly  care  for  you 

Darilla  (Low  and  hopelessly) — You  forget  I  am 
Christian;  my  people — my  kindred — all  died  last 
night ! 

Hafed — You  have  powerful  friends  at  Me- 
dina  

Darilla  (Smiling  sorrowfully) — Nay,  sir,  I  think 
— the  last  of  my  friends  went  yonder!  (Motions 
after  ZENNA.) 

Hafed  (With  sudden  warmth} — You  still  have 
another,  believe  me,  who  will  find  you  proper  pro- 
tection. It  seems  years  ago,  yet  the  bloom  is  not 

sped  that  had  blown  when  you  trusted  me 

Trust  me  again? 

Darilla  (Struggling  for  control,  as  she  turns 
from  him) — Yesterday — I  was  weak  and  sinful — 
may  Heaven  forgive  me! — but  my  eyes  were  still 
shut  to  the  world's  last  mockery — when  men  in 


ACT  II  37 

Truth's  image — speaking  Truth's  tongue, — did 
murder! 

Hafed — By  all  that  is  sacred,  you  wrong  me!! 
At  the  cost  of  my  life  this  hand  would  have  shielded 
your  father — as  it  only  strove  to  save  you! 

Darilla  {With  a  passionate  gesture  of  misery) 
— Ah,  whom — whom  shall  I  trust?  My  father 
said  all  you  deny 

Hafed  (Earnestly) — I  swear  by  no  oath  ever  tar- 
nished— I  pledge  you  across  the  sepulchre  of  my 
Mother, — as  to  his  death  and  your  safety  1 

Darilla  (Half  stretching  her  hands  to  him) — I 
would  trust  you! — I  could — but — (Shrinks  back) — 
when  I  think  what  men  call  you — (Shudders) — 
And  now  to  be  here! — (Glances  around  fearfully.) 

Hafed — The  casket  is  rough  for  the  pearl,  but 
from  the  moment  you  entered  your  purity  reared 
here  a  Mecca  of  inviolable  sanctity;  I  guard  it  as 
distant  as  Arafa! 

Darilla  (With  a  sudden  outburst) — I  shall  go 
mad  if  I  stay  here! — for  I  know  now  I  must  not 
kill  myself.  .  .  .  All  night  I  have  sat  at  the  win- 
dow looking  down — down — down — into  chasms  of 
blackness  leaping  with  spectral  fires — roaring  witn 
hidden  waters — empty  of  ground  or  pathway:  as 
though  some  spirit  of  Evil  had  snatched  me  up 
from  sweet  earth  to  a  sunless  eyrie !  ...  If  you  are 
not — what  they  say — why  do  you  live  here? 

Hafed  {Half -smiling,  and  lowering  his  voice) — 
'Tis  whispered  my  fathers  were  genii!  (In  a  nat- 
ural tone,  leaning  nearer  her)  See  you  not, — I, 
who  in  Arabic  fables  become  every  beast  in  the  jun- 
gle, am — God  help  us! — but  a  poor  half-demon  in 
Persia?  You  remain  here  only  till (A  hub- 


38  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

bub  without  interrupts  him.  Loud  laughter  from  the 
GHEBERS  mingles  with  shrill  scolding  from  ZENNA 
as  the  men  surge  in,  pushing  and  dragging  her 
amongst  them  with  airs  of  mock  gallantry,  while 
one,  affecting  a  love-lorn  look,  picks  on  a  blue- 
ribboned  lute.  As  DARILLA  shrinks  back  away 
from  them,  HAFED  steps  in  front  of  her.) 

A  Gheber  (Offering  ZENNA  grapes) — Sorceress 
of  Love! — but  taste — that  the  vine  and  the  rose 
may  commingle  their  precious  perfumes!  (All  laugh 
derisively.) 

Zenna  (Turning  on  him  fiercely) — Adder  of 
Earth — away!  (HAFED,  about  to  interfere,  is 
stopped  by  the  reappearance  of  SERJUS  and  ROBIER, 
who  engage  him  aside.) 

Another  Gheber  (Proffering  ZENNA  some  olives) 
— Nay,  Enchantress — with  honeyed  lips  touch  what 
is  tart,  and  sweetmeats  shall  lie  on  the  dish! 
(More  laughter.) 

Zenna — Vermin!  would  they  were  poisoned! 
(Knocks  the  platter  out  of  his  hand.) 

Darilla  (Low  and  protestingly) — Zenna! 

Another  Gheber  (Drowning  her  words — to 
ZENNA,  as  the  men  fall  to  at  the  table) — Thy  voice, 
O  Peri  flown  out  of  Paradise ! — is  music  that  makes 
the  heart  drunken! 

Zenna  (Aiming  a  blow  at  him) — Dog! — thou 
wert  drunken  already! 

Darilla  (Pleadingly)— Zenna!! 

Gheber  (With  the  lute,  efe  joining  the  rest, — to 
ZENNA) — Ah!  those  hands — like  gentle  oysters, 
soft  homes  for  pearls — shall  give  us  who  feast  a. 
new  Anahita  and  a  new  Heaven.  ( With  a  low  rev- 
erence, presenting  the  lute.) 


ACT  II  39 

Zenna  (Snatching  the  lute  and  cuffing  him 
soundly) — A  drubbing,  villain,  they'd  gladly  give 
thee  for  stealing! — and  a  cleansing  will  I  give  this 
ere  Mistress  touch  it!  (While  BARILLA  with  dif- 
ficulty silences  ZENNA,  aside,  a  GUARD  enters.) 

Guard  (Saluting  HAFED) — My  lord,  the  captive 
who  spake  with  the  Emir,  Ram#h,  asks  to  ac- 
quaint you  and  your  company  with  weighty  news. 

Hafed — Bring  him  in.  (SfiRjus  and  ROBIER  draw 
aside. ) 

Darilla  (With  a  gesture  toward  ZENNA) — Sir, 
shall  we  not  go  ? 

Hafed — Nay,  a  moment  wait  yonder — (Leads 
the  women  aside  to  an  embrasure  covered  with  leop- 
ard-skins. Unobserved,  they  see  and  hear  what 
passes  as  the  GUARD  ushers  in  the  prisoner,  an 
Arabian  of  striking  appearance,  whom  the  GHEBERS, 
turning,  eye  attentively.  The  GUARD  retires.) 

Hafed  (To  the  ARAB) — You  would  speak  with 
us? 

The  Arab  (Impressively) — I  would  change  with 
you — (By  a  gesture  including  the  rest) — vital  ser- 
vices. For  life  and  freedom,  I  will  point,  O  simple 
Persians,  to  one  amongst  ye  whose  patriot  form, 
plucked  of  his  cloak  of  hypocrisy,  shall  stand  forth 
blackly  a  traitor !  (  There  is  an  instant  of  conster- 
nated silence.  The  GHEBERS,  amazed,  look  one  at 
another.) 

Hafed  (Solemnly,  amid  great  stillness) — I  think 
you  lie;  for  I  should  stake  my  own  life  blindly  on 
the  faith  of  these — (Indicating  his  men) — and  their 
brethren.  Your  word  will  never  blacken  them. 

The  Arab — And  what  if  I  offer  proof  that, 
tongueless,  lies  not?  By  Mohammed! — (Looking 


40  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

around  scornfully} — I  counted  not  ye  would  shield 
him! 

Hafed — You  mistake:  you  shall  be  free,  thrice- 
fold,  when  you  prove  here  a  traitor! 

The  Arab  (To  the  others) — And  ye,  by  your 
honor,  hold  to  this  pact? 

The  Ghebers  (Scoffinffly)-Ay-Oh,  ay! 

The  Arab — Then  here  I  denounce  him  whose 
messenger  just  sped  to  Omar  with  treacherous  over- 
tures !  The  terms  of  your  sale  were  easy :  Protec- 
tion for  a  beautiful  Princess  till  she  be  called  for — 
(DARILLA  in  her  shelter  starts  up  excitedly) — and 
a  lieutenancy  over  your  southwest  provinces!  For 
these,  you  would  be  delivered  at  once  to  the  power 
of  his  Majesty,  as  witness — the  ring  of  Hafed! 
(Holds  it  up.  With  a  choked  cry  of  rage,  HAFED 
wrests  the  ring  from  him.  The  GHEBERS  leap  to 
their  feet.  SERJUS,  with  the  spring  of  a  wolf,  has 
his  blade  at  the  ARAB'S  throat  when  HAFED  seizes 

a.) 

Hafed  (Tapping  SERJUS'  weapon) — Soil  it  not! 
(To  the  ARAB,  scathingly) — Your  Emperor  sinks 
low,  indeed,  to  litter  his  army  with  perjurers!  ( To 
his  followers) — Men! — I  have  sent  a  proposal  to 
Omar — (General  amazement) — this  ring  was  its 
surety, — still,  I  am  honest!  (  SERJUS  and  ROBIER 
cheer:  the  rest  look  astonished.)  Protection — the 
only  fitting  protection — I  sought  in  the  name  of  our 
common  manhood,  for  the  orphaned  Arabian 
princess ;  yet,  that  a  general  of  Persians  stoop  not  to 
beg  of  an  enemy,  I  pledged  in  return  the  release  of 
our  captives.  That  the  ring  lent  for  safety  of 
Omar's  envoys, — six  or  less  persons — should  be 


ACT  II  41 

given  this  man  to  buy  life  with,  was  an  easy  trick 
for  his  juggling  kinsman,  Ahmed  Ramah  my  mes- 
senger ! 

Serjus  (Fiercely — to  the  ARAB) — And  hadst  thou 
six  lives,  Spitter  of  Perfidies,  thou  shouldst  lose  all 
for  this  calumny! 

Robier  (Menacingly) — Let  him  now  choke  on 
it! 

Others — Choke  him! — Flay  him!! 

The  Arab  (Raising  his  hand  for  silence) — You 
doubt  me  and  the  ring:  let  Omar's  answer  con- 
firm me:  wait  it — and  judge  for  yourselves! 

Jabez — Shameless  one! — freedom  for  insult? 
Rather  be  chained  to  the  rocks  till  vultures  tear  out 
the  tongue  that  would  blast  this,  Persia's  chief  pa- 
triot ! 

The  Arab  (With  folded  arms  and  a  slight  sneer, 
pointing  a  finger  at  HAFED) — He  there  spake  lately 
of  jugglers;  what  think  you  of  juggling  that  makes 
of  an  infidel  stranger  Persia's  chief  patriot? 

Serjus  (Drawing  a  weapon) — Viper! — not  done? 
(There  are  angry  murmurs  among  the  GHEBERS, 
who,  scowling  or  derisive,  seem  in  doubt  how  to 
act.) 

Amidar — By  the  Lord! — here  is  something  cov- 
ered! What  mean  you,  man? 

The  Arab  (Boldly) — That  your  general  is 
doubly  a  cheat!  Neither  Hafed  nor  Persian — I 
swear  by  the  soul  of  our  prophet,  a  foreign  adven- 
turer has,  with  greed  of  ambition,  gulled  you  and 
seized  on  your  leadership !  (The  GHEBERS,  im- 
pressed against  their  own  wills,  stand  mutely,  breath- 
lessly staring.) 


42  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

Serjus  (Smotheredly) — Devil!- 


Robier  (Forcing  a  smile) — Nay,  he  is  utterly 
mad — the  man  has  illusions 

The  Arab — Ask  your  chief  whether  this  be  illu- 
sion !  (Snatching  from  his  breast  a  linen  kerchief, 
he  holds  it  up.)  It  fell  from  his  bosom  one  day  by 
a  desert  spring.  .  .  .  Two  Arabs  lay  dead  at  his 
hand,  but  the  third  rode  away  with  this  keepsake. 
.  .  .  Henri  de  Rohan  is  wrought  here  under  a 
coronet.  .  .  .  Will  he  deny  it  is  his? 

A  Gheber  (Forestalling  HAFED) — Infamous 
Moslem! — who  would  debase  him  to  answer? 

Another  (Quickly,  as  HAFED  would  speak)  — 
We  know,  O  Vender  of  Wisdom,  we  others  are 
dolts  and  crackbrains;  but  tell  us  in  pity  if  we  are 
Fins  or  Hindoos — English  or  Esquimaux — Mon- 
keys or  Apes? 

Hafed  (Calmly  motioning  them  aside) — I  thank 
you  all,  friends,  but  he  that  is  Hafed  the  Persian 
was  born  in  truth  Henri  de  Rohan;  that  is  my 
kerchief.  (All  look  dumbfounded — SERJUS,  ghast- 

ly.) 

Hafed — Guilty  of  this  name  I  am,  and  of  shar- 
ing your  struggles,  a  stranger, — but  of  naught  else 
the  Arab  has  charged.  Ambition! — Ye  were  bowed 
in  the  dust  when  Sympathy  lent  you  this  sword — 
Was  I  ambitious  of  Ruin?  Such  as  I  am,  I  ran 
to  your  rescue,  and  since  I  have  held  your  cause 
sacred — broken  no  vow — betrayed  no  trust — plotted 
no  treason — why  should  I  yield  up  my  birthright? 
I  own  it  with  joy,  that  under  the  vest  of  a  Persian — 
even  as  a  lock  from  the  head  of  a  Mother  dead  to  me 
— I  hug  to  my  heart,  unspotted,  the  colors  of  France 


ACT  II  43 

and  the  badge  of  Our  Lady  of  Bethlehem.  ( Throws 
open  his  vest,  displaying  them.  There  is  a  muf- 
fled cry  from  SERJUS,  an  exultant  one  from  the 
ARAB — a  gasp,  as  of  joy,  from  DARILLA,  which 
passes  unnoticed.) 

Serjus  (Raising  his  arm  passionately,  as  the  rest 
stand  consternated) — Of  France— r-yet  more  Persian 
than  Persians! 

Hafed  (Signing  him  to  be  silent) — Nevertheless, 
your  country  is  mine !  In  her  midnight  hour  of  mis- 
fortunes, I  chose  her,  dowerless,  the  worthy  bride 
of  my  sword.  Despoiled  of  her  jewels, — half-life- 
less with  blows  of  assassins, — her  beauty  washed 
out  with  tears — she  called  to  my  heart  for  defence; 
— whether  it  answered  her  truly — whether,  French- 
man or  Persian,  for  her  I  have  held  my  life  cheap, — 
ye  are  witness.  To  say  mere  would  discredit  your 
honesty. 

Robier — Ay ! — The  Savior  of  Persia  needs  no  de- 
fence to  her  people! — But  for  him — (Points  to  the 
ARAB) — let  his  blood  wash  out  quickly  his  lies! 

Hafed — Pah! — A  swallow  of  wine  will  drown 
them — (Pours  out  a  goblet  and  raises  it) — Fill  your 
cups,  comrades! — As  I  trust  in  her  truth,  I  pledge 
you  Our  Lady  of  Persia: 

"Others  may  find  another  love  as  fair; 
Upon  her  threshold  I  have  laid  my  head, — 
The  dust  shall  cover  me,  still  lying  there, 
When  from  my  body  life  and  love  have  fled !" 

(The  men  have  mechanically  filled  their  glasses  but 
they  are  left  untouched.) 


44  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

Amidar  (Setting  down  his  goblet) — With  my 
lord's  pardon,  the  wine  is  low — I  have  had  my 
portion.  (Bows  himself  out.) 

Another  (Setting  down  his  goblet) — And  I,  re- 
membering a  wound,  pray  my  lord  excuse  me. 
(Goes.) 

Another — The  toast  of  Hafed  is  echoed  by  every 
Persian;  I  would  feast  on  it  privately.  (Goes.) 

Another — And  I  say  straightly,  this  coil  confuses 
a  plain  man ;  I  must  ponder  it  ere  I  drink  further. 
(Goes.) 

Another  (Stiffly)— When  Truth  and  Error  lock 
arms,  'tis  dangerous  company;  let  us  look  closer, 
lords!  (Goes.) 

Another  (Going) — Methinks,  indeed,  our  lord- 
general  hath  troubled  incredibly  much  for  this 
maiden — our  enemy ! 

Another  (Vehemently ,  joining  him  in  the  door- 
way}— Maiden  I — Prate  not  of  wenches,  with 
Heaven's  own  altars  defiled! — Before  the  Immacu- 
late Symbol  of  One  Supreme  Sovereign,  Hafed  our 
leader  hath  knelt  to  a  Three-Headed  God!  The 
breath  of  idolatry  steeps  in  its  foul  miasma  your 
holiest  prayers, — God  is  mocked  and  the  Crown  of 
Isdigerd  desecrate — (Points  at  arm's  length  to 
HAFED) — Ye  follow  a  Frenchman! — Infidel! 
(Passes  out.  The  rest,  with  show  of  clearing 
the  table,  hurry  after4,  save  SERJUS  and  ROBIER. 
HAFED  has  stonily  watched  his  mens  withdrawal.) 

Serjus  (His  face  drawn  with  anguish, — falling 
at  HAFED'S  feet)—  Hafed!— Noblest  of  Earth /— 
Why  didst  thou  stop  my  defence  of  thee  ? 

Hafed  (Bitterly,  raising  him) — Because,  in  his 
blindness,  Hafed  thought  not  to  need  it, — nor 


ACT  II  45 

wished  thine  own  compromise.  (Turning  to  the 
ARAB) — We  may  dispense  with  your  honorable  pres- 
ence! (To  SERJUS  and  ROBIER) — Set  him  loose! 
— Let  him  taint  the  air  here  no  longer,  lest  we  die 
of  the  poison !  ( The  ARAB  is  led  out,  Rear.  HAFED, 
as  though  unconsciously  followinff  to  the  door, 
stands  gazing  out,  lost  in  reverie.  -DARILLA, — who 
in  the  shade  of  the  embrasure  has  watched  all, 
spell-bound, — half -hesitating,  starts  toward  HAFED, 
but  is  plucked  back  by  ZENNA.) 

Zenna  (In  a  fierce  whisper) — Miserable! — fol- 
low a  traitor ? 

Darilla  (Low) — Nay! — Nay! — I  believe  it 
not! 

Zenna  (In  a  fierce  whisper) — Thy  would-be  be- 
trayer!  

Darilla  (JLow,  putting  up  her  hands,  piteously)  — 
Nay!! 

Zenna  (Hissingly,  snatching  from  her  bosom  a 
small  dagger) — Then  will  I  kill  myself! 

Darilla  (Clasping  her, — scarce  audibly) — God! 
— I  go  with  you ! 

(JVitli  a  lingering,  passionate  look  at  HAFED,  she 
yields  ZENNA  her  hand,  and  they  pass  out  unno- 
ticed. After  some  instants,  HAFED,  rousing  him- 
self, turns  and  with  cleared  brow  approaches  the 
embrasure,  but  stops  short  with  a  fresh  look  of  bit- 
terness on  finding  it  empty.) 


CURTAIN 


ACT  II 

SCENE  II 

SCENE:  The  Gheber  Fort, — as  in  Scene  L  Be- 
fore the  altar,  now  ablaze  with  torches,  a  great 
company  of  GHEBERS  in  reverential  attitudes, 
chanting  a  hymn  of  worship.  Slant  sun-rays 
piercing  the  windows  wrap  the  figures  in  faint- 
colored  mists,  painting  their  raiment  softly. 
Above  and  beyond,  the  altar  lights  burn  bril- 
liantly. 

TIME:     The  following  morning. 

The  Ghebers  (Chanting) — 

Ere  yet  in  formless  void  was  raised 

His  Tent  of  white  and  blue, 

The   Light-of-All — His   power   be   praised! — 

Smote  the  all-darkness  through. 

Dread  night  His  flaming  lance  did  flee, 
And  by  that  primal  pyre 
The  immortal  Was — Am — Is-to-be 
Proclaimed  Himself  in  Fire. 

Wherefore,  O  blazing  Symbol,  hail! — 

Sole  type  of  Purity — 

Thy  holy  portent  ne'er  shall  fail 

While  faithful  bend 

46 


ACT  II  47 

Amidar  (Bursting  in  wildly) — Up! — Up  from 
your  whining/ — The  way  is  open — save  yourselves  I 

All  (Starting  up)  —  Ha!  .  .  .  What  11  .  .  . 
The  enemy / 

Amidar  (Feverishly) — Enemies! — Persian  and 
Arab! — By  heaven,  enemies!  (Rocks  with  sudden 
fierce  laughter.) 

Jafez  (Shaking  him  roughly) — Crack  your  nut 
soon,  for  God's  sake! 

Amidar  (More  controlled, — rapidly)— Ay,  here's 
the  meat  of  it!  ...  For  reasons  mine  own,  I 
chanced  out  ere  the  day  robed, — say,  for  a  whiff  of 
the  sea!  .  .  .  But  nearing  those  portals  of  Para- 
dise, my  Lady  of  Araby's  window,  I  glimpsed  there- 
trelliced  a  Moon-Flower  this  Bulbul  fain  would 
have  piped  to.  Good! — I  hop  to  a  buttress,  and  am 
casting  about  for  a  hearing,  when  lo ! — up  the  water- 
front, dilly-dally,  comes  my  Lord  Hafed.  No  mar- 
vel— just  two  of  us  sea-sick! — so,  while  he  doubled 
my  tracks  to  the  wall,  I  hugged  it,  waiting  his  trick 
to  the  window.  .  .  .  He  showed  not;  I  peeped 
through  a  cranny — no  inch  of  him  anywhere; — 
easing  up,  I  craned  over  the  buttress.  .  .  .  Below, 
in  the  old  altar-niche,  by  these  eyes! — knelt  Al 
Hafed, — praying  by  neither  the  red  lips  of  Love  nor 
holier  symbol  than  the  Cross  on  a  heretic's  sword! 
And  then — then,  as  the  fiend  lives  to  laugh  at  us ! — 
chanced  a  prettier  trick  than  I  looked  for!  .  .  . 
Gripping  the  stones,  my  hand  slipped — struck  a  bolt 
— something  slid  in  the  wall  and  went  THUD! 
...  I  looked  down  and  pummeled  my  eyes, — but 
a  stone  door,  at  least,  is  no  moon-shine  matter, 
and  that  one  had  trapped  my  lord  neatly!  (Hugs 
himself  with  another  burst  of  harsh  laughter.) 


48  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

The  Rest  (In  a  breath — consternated) — Trapped 
him!— You  left  him?  .  .  .  Hafed f 

Amidar  (Shrugging — defiantly) — Why  should  I 
undo  Fate's  fastenings? — What  is  written,  will 
be (Cries  of  rage  stop  him.) 

Jafez  (To  the  rest) — Quick,  to  his  rescue! — 
(To  AMIDAR)— By  Eblis!— if  thou  have  killed 

Amidar  (Barring  the  way) — Fools  ! — hear  me! — 
Al  Hafed  will  last,  but  your  Hour  of  Omen  passes ! 
Have  ye  thought  on  his  walk  by  the  water?  (They 
pause,  with  attention  arrested.) 

Amidar — 'Twas  no  Light  o'  Love  tryst, — though 
as  secret;  he  watched  for  the  sail  that  should  waft 
here  the  Caliph's  cur  with  his  message  of  com- 
promise! Ill  had  it  fallen  in  your  hands  ere  it 
reached  Hafed's! — And  ne'er  might  it  chance,  but 
that — saith  the  adage — the  prayer  of  the  wicked  con- 
founds him.  While  he  prayed,  the  boat  landed;  in 
a  moment  the  Arab  will  be  here.  .  .  .  Consult 
him! — then  rescue  your  traitor! 

The  Ghebers  (At  variance) — So  be  it!  .  .  . 
Well  said!  .  .  .  Nay,  traitor  when  proven! — You 
out-run  the  warrant!  .  .  . 

Amidar  (Raising  his  arm,  vehemently) — Weak 
Flounderers  all ! — ye  have  come  to  the  Rock  of  De- 
cision, betwixt  the  two  Seas!  One  way  you  must 
choose — with  this  Turncoat  or  no !  Learn  the  mes- 
sage of  Omar  unmeddled  with;  if  Hafed  show 
honest,  release  him!  If  not, — spare  your  qualms; 
his  doom  is  of  Azrail !  .  .  .  But  hasten! 

Several  Voices — Spoke  justly! — The  Arab! — See 
first  the  Arab! 


ACT  II  49 

Jafez — But  after? — Who'd  ward  off  the  Mos- 
lem? 

Amidar  (Proudly) — I,  Son  of  Al  Hassam! 
(They  burst  out  in  ridicule.)  Yea,  by  the  womb 
that  bore  me! — in  Hafed's  own  steps,  save  my  faith 
be  clothed  in  one  color! 

Jafez  (Smiling  grimly) — The  Shoes  of  Hafed 

are  large.  .  .  .  Do  we  coax,  or  compel  this 

(AMIDAR  signs  warning  as  SERJUS  enters  with  the 
ARABIAN.  ) 

Serjus  (Presenting  the  visitor) — Ye  that  honor  a 
valiant  foe,  salute  him ! — for  a  flaming  sword  sleeps 
now  in  the  belt  of  Ad  Vakass !  ( The  company  and 
the  ARAB  exchange  profound  salutations.) 

Amidar  (Stepping  out,  quickly) — I  speak  for 
all — (By  a  gesture  including  them) — who,  know- 
ing the  bold  Ad  Vakass,  show  wonder-struck; — 
why  sleeps  the  sword? 

The  Arab  (With  a  grave  smile) — That  would  I 
say  to  your  Chief! 

Serjus — Ay! — where's  Prince  Hafed?  (As  no 
one  speaks) — Herjil! — Ammas! 

Herjil  (With  averted  eyes) — I — have  not  yet 
seen  him 

Ammas  (With  averted  eyes) — Nor  I 

Another  (As  SERJUS  looks  wonderingly  at  him) 
— I  neither 

Serjus  ( Suspiciously  )  — What ! • 

Amidar  (Meaningly) — The  Lord  Hafed  had 
early  business  out  by  the  water-front — (Grins  sar- 
donically)— doubtless  to  welcome  our  guest  there, — 
and  is  not  returned. 

Serjus — 'Tis    strange — (Eyes    them     keenly) — 


50  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

Why  look  ye,  lords,  to  be  chewing  a  mystery? — 
(Clutches  the  arm  of  AMIDAR,  his  voice  trembling) 
— Is — aught  wrong  with  Al  Haf ed  ? 

Amidar  (Shaking  loose) — We  shall  know  when 
we  hear  his  message! — (Signifying  the  ARAB.  To 
the  rest) — Come! — Let  us  find  Hafed  ! — he  should 
be  this  way — (Leads  out,  R.  As  they  all  hurry 
out,  SERJUS  moodily  following,  DARILLA  peers  in 
at  the  back  mid-entrance, — her  face  showing  white 
and  excited.  When  all  are  gone  but  SERJUS,  she 
steals  in,  and,  finger  on  lip,  signals  him.  Surprised, 
he  lags  till  the  others  are  out  of  hearing,  then  turns 
to  her.) 

Darilla  (Low) — You  love  Lord  Hafed? 

Serjus  ( Eagerly )  — Ay ! — Ay ! ! 

Darilla  (Low — hurriedly) — I  think — I  am  sure, 
— there  is  something  strange  here ! — At  dawn,  I  was 
by  the  window,  watching  the  first  sun-spangles, 
when,  glimpsing  Amidar  opposite,  I  sprung  back 
till  he  should  pass.  .  .  .  When  I  peeped  out  again 
he  was  gone,  and  Lord  Hafed  coming  that  way, 
seeming  most  pale  and  troubled.  I — I  know  not 
how  'twas,  but  his  look  so  drew  me,  I  watched 
him  come  up  to  the  parapet;  then  I  sudden  caught 
sight  of  a  figure  crouched  on  it  under  a  buttress, 
peering  down  evilly.  .  .  .  (Leaning  close  and  whis- 
p  ering )  — A  m  idar  I 

Serjus  (Almost  grasping  her) — Then? — and 
then f 

Darilla — I  was  so  startled,  I  shrank  down  in  ter- 
ror— for  Zenna  was  sleeping, — when  something  be- 
low crashed  heavily.  ...  I  sprung  up  and  looked 
— it  was  like  black  magic! — Hafed  was  nowhere — 
nothing  had  fallen — only  Amidar  hung  over  the 


ACT  II  51 

parapet,  leering!  Next  moment  he  sprung  down 
and  seemingly  felt  of  the  wall  with — (Shuddering) 
— Holy  Mother! — what  looks  of  triumphing  mal- 
ice ! Then  ran — ran  like  a  hare  out  of  sight — 

even  as  I  spied  your  boat  landing !  .  .  .  And  in  all 

the  time  since  Lord  Hafed  has  never 

Serjus  (Seizing  her  arm  half-frenziedly) — Come! 
— Treachery! — treachery! !  (As  he  dashes  out,  urg- 
ing her  on  with  him,  a  contusion  of  voices  and  bois- 
terous laughter  sounds  without,  from  the  GHEBERS, 
returning.  They  enter,  AMIDAR  assuming  to  jest  of 
HAFED  with  the  ARAB.) 

Amidar — Pah! — leave  this  genius  his  vagary! — 
'Tis  the  vanishing  trick  of  his  forbears,  the  Genii! 
(Suddenly  fronts  the  ARAB, — his  manner  changed 
sharply.)  But,  by  the  Lord! — though  Hafed  ab- 
sent him,  we  others  stand  eager; — if  it  be  not  his 
secret,  give  us  quickly  your  tidings! 

The  Company — Ay! — to  the  point! — Come! 
Come!! 

The  Arab  (Proudly) — The  word  of  my  Master, 
I,  Ad  Vakass,  betray  not;  I  am  sent  to  your 
Chief!  (There  are  groans  and  derisive  mutter- 
ings.) 

Amidar  (With  a  significant  glance  at  the  rest) — 
So !  ...  And  were  there  a  paper, — some  slight  go- 
between  from  your  humane  Emperor  to  a  graceless 
Fire-Fiend, — worth  our  considering?  .  .  .  (Fierce- 
ly)— Should  we  not  rightly  seize  it? 

Ad  Vakass  (Calmly) — Perchance — but  I  should 
be  dead  first;  and  my  Emperor — (With  a  deep  rev- 
erence)— May  his  shadow  lengthen! — has  millions 
more  to  avenge  him. 

Amidar  (Springing  forth  with  drawn  scimitar) — 


52  x  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

Spy! — you  acknowledge  it? — (At  his  gesture  every 
blade  flashes  out) — Then  look  you — we  made  no 
truce! — we  have  pawned  no  pledge! — our  swords 
are  awake! — (He  presses  close  on  the  cool,  half- 
contemptuous  ARAB, — his  blade  raised  and  menac- 
ing)— Quick  now,  with  your  message!  (The 
ARAB,  laying  finger  on  lip,  and  gripping  the  hilt  of 
his  sword,  steps  back,  shaking  his  head  disdainfully; 
the  GHEBERS,  with  howls  of  rage  and  aimed  weap- 
ons, spring  toward  him.) 

Amidar  (Barely  holding  their  blows  with  a  sign, 
— his  own  sword  near  touching  AD  VAKASS, — his 
face  livid  with  rage) — Fool! — See  you  not? — the 
message! — or  nothing  can  save  you!  (The  ARAB 
has  been  pressed  back  near  the  doorway,  which,  in 
the  last  instant,  HAFED,  pale  and  half-fainting, — 
helped  by  SERJUS  and  DARILLA, — has,  unnoticed, 
reached.  Ere  one  is  aware,  thrusting  forward  he 
slips  on  the  ARAB'S  hand  the  ring  first  pledged  for 
his  safety.) 

Hafed  (Imperiously^ — lifting  the  hand  of  Ab 
VAKASS) — But  the  ring  of  Hafed!  (There  is  in- 
stant recoil.  The  GHEBERS,  amazed,  fall  back,  low- 
ering their  weapons.) 

Hafed  (Now  erect  and  ringingly) — He  that,  be- 
traying an  envoy,  shames  here  Persia  and  the  dead 
Isdigerd,  lays  down  sword  in  their  service !  ( There 
is  silence.  The  men  stand  abashed;  AMIDAR,  hand 
on  blade,  fingers  it  sullenly.  ZENNA  peeps  in  and 
draws  back  terrified.) 

Hafed  (Turning  to  the  ARAB) — Forget  this,  my 
lord ; — misfortune  is  salt  on  the  heart, — oppression, 
a  goad  in  the  sore. — You  have  news  for  us  ? 

Ad  Vakass   (Bowing  profoundly) — Ay,  Prince! 


ACT  II  53 

(Draws  from  his  bosom  a  packet.)  The  Most 
High  and  Excellent  Lord  of  the  Earth, — The  Axis 
of  the  Revolution  of  Time — Successor  of  Abubeker 
— Defender  of  the  People  of  the  True  Faith — The 
puissant  King  of  Kings,  great  Omar  Ebn  Al  Khat- 
tab, — God's  Shadow  on  Earth — on  whom  be  the 
blessing  of  Heaven! — sends  this, —  (Offers  the 
packet) — wherein,  as  a  cup  heaped  with  jewels,  lies 
garnered  wisdom. 

Hafed  (Taking  the  packet) — We  thank  him. 
(Turns  to  DARILLA  in  the  doorway) — Lady,  this 
matter  is  yours, — pray  enter!  (SfiRjus  leads  her 
forward, — ZENNA.,  with  pursed  lips,  following.) 

Hafed  (Handing  packet  to  AMIDAR) — You  have 
been  anxious:  read  it! 

Amidar  (Half-shame-facedly  tearing  open  the 
packet,  reads:) 

In  the  Name  of  the  Most  Merciful  God : — 

His  servant,  Omar  Ebn  Al  Khattab,  greeteth 
Hafed  the  Persian: — 

Our  faithful  Ramah  brings  us  your  fair  propos- 
als, which  have  our  favor ;  yet  as  somewhat  remains 
for  our  common  interests  requiring  a  personal  set- 
tlement, we  name  you  our  chosen  escort  for  Prin- 
cess Darilla  and  her  servant  here  to  our  residence, 
pledging  our  word  for  your  safety,  coming  and  go- 
ing. On  this  small  condition,  proving  to  us  your 
good  faith,  we  will  receive  and  provide  for  both 
women  as  becometh  the  Princess'  dignity.  Other- 
wise we  cannot  negotiate.  Praised  be  Allah,  who 
ordereth  all  things! 

(Signed)  Omar,  the  Caliph. 

( The  first  sentence  blanches  all  faces; — as,  AMI- 
DAR, hot  and  elated,  reads  on,  hands  clap  to  weap- 


54  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

onSj — eyes  flash,  and  forms  stiffen, — till,  finishing, 
AMIDAR  passionately  crushes  the  letter  and  flings  it 
at  HAFED'S  feet, — who,  deathly  pale,  stands  as 
though  carved  out  of  granite.  DARILLA,  as  pale, 
has  grasped  the  arm  of  SERJUS,  and  unconsciously 
clings  to  it.  For  a  tense  instant  no  word  is  spoken.) 

Jafez  (To  HAFED, — in  a  dulled  tone) — What 
make  you  of  this? 

Hafed  (Speaking  as  a  corpse  might, — his  eyes 
fixed  before  him) — That  the  spider,  Ramah,  hath 
spun  a  wide  web.  .  .  .  Nevertheless — (With  a 
mighty  effort  rousing  himself, — to  the  ARAB) — 1 
will  go  to  your  Caliph ! 

Amidar  (Fiercely,  as  his  comrades  show  stupe- 
fied)— You  would  not  attempt  it ? 

Hafed — What  should  hinder  me  ?  Frenchmen  do 
not  leave  women  defenceless — and  in  sooth  there — 
(Points  to  the  Caliph's  letter) — is  matter  for  per- 
sonal settlement.  (To  ROBIER) — Come!  Have 
the  captives  led  out — the  boats  and  the  horses 
ready ! 

Jafez  (Intercepting  ROBIER,  to  HAFED,  chok- 
ingly)— Stop! — You  flee  from  suspicion? 

Hafed  (Flashing  a  look  around) — Let  him  stand 
forth  that  suspects  me!  (As  they  hesitate) — Is  faith 
a  matter  of  neighborhood  ?  I  am  everywhere  Hafed 
the  Persian  till  Persia  forswear  me,  but  the  fate 
of  this  girl  is  my  care,  and  by  my  own  honor! — 
hers  shall  not  be  tossed  like  a  bauble  amongst  ye! 
(To  ROBIER) — Go!  (HAFED  approaches  BARIL- 
LA.) 

Another  (Thrusting  forward  and  pointing  vin- 
dictively to  the  girl) — For  her  sake,  mark! — For  a 
mincing  jade  sprung  of  her  bloodiest  enemy,  Persia 


ACT  II  55 

is  perilled!  (There  are  mutterings  and  some 
hisses. ) 

Hafed  (With  a  shrug, — putting  him  aside) — Ex- 
tol me  not,  friend !  For  a  woman's  honor  there  are 
everyday  men  who  would  gladly  peril  the  world! 
(To  DARILLA,  while  the  men  scowl  darkly) — Will 
you  make  ready? 

Darilla  (Falteringly) — We  are  ready,  my  lord, 
— but — since  these  take  it  ill,  give  us  another  escort! 
We — we  shall  be  safe,  indeed!  The  Caliph  loved 
— my  father.  .  .  .  Stay, — (Suddenly  lifting  her 
head,  she  looks  around  proudly) — and  refute  their 
calumny! 

Hafed  (Amazed,  taking  her  by  the  hand,  gently) 
— I  shall  refute  it,  doubt  not, — but  I  must  go  with 
you.  (Inclines  to  AD  VAKASS) — Precede  us! 
(The  ARAB  salaams  profoundly  and  goes.  As 
HAFED  follows  with  the  women,  AMIDAR  starts  up 
furiously.) 

Amidar — Persians! — will  you  suffer  it? 

Several  Voices — Never!  .  .  .  This  seals  his 
guilt!  .  .  .  He  defies  us!  .  .  .  (With  hands  on 
their  weapons,  they  leap  to  prevent  him.) 

Hafed  (Towering  over  them) — What! 

(Scornfully,  his  eyes  on  their  weapons) — You 
dare  not,  my  lords!  .  .  .  By  the  laws  of  all  coun- 
tries men  are  innocent  till  proven  guilty.  You 
have  tried,  it  seems,  to  fasten  some  treachery  on  me, 
but  no  atom  sticks  to  my  shoulders.  .  .  .  Mark  ye 
more — without  formal  court-martial,  my  rank  is  un- 
scathed as  your  general,  and  by  the  bright  Day  and 
dark  Night! — he  that  draws  on  his  chief  shall  be 
strung  to  a  tree  for  his  venture !  (  They  pause  ir- 
resolute.) 


56  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

Hafed  (One  hand  on  his  sword,  the  other  held 

out  to  DARILLA, — blandly) — Will  you  come? 

(DARILLA,  trembling  with  terror,  lays  her  hand  in 
his  own  and  is  led  toward  the  door, — ZENNA,  stum- 
bling with  fright,  close  behind.  When  they  have 
taken  some  steps,  the  GHEBERS,  surging  together 
with  furious  cries,  block  the  way.) 

Amidar  (At  their  head, — half  beside  himself)  — 
Hafed,  or  Henri  of  France! — General  or 
crowned  Arch- Angel ! — from  the  moment  you  enter 
Medina,  we  brand  you  a  traitor  to  Persia, — so  to  be 
dealt  with  on  sight ! 

Hafed  ( Co  Idly)—  'Twill  not  be  the  first  time 
that  Justice,  led  blind-fold,  has  stumbled.  (His 
glance  covering  them  all)  Lords! — in  my  philos- 
ophy, we  weave  at  our  looms  as  the  stars  color  our 
threads,  but  no  man  may  finger  my  pattern !  (Draws 
and  raises  his  sword  determinedly, — his  voice  stern 
with  command) — Let  us  pass! 

(There  is  some  hesi- 
tation, then  slowly  and  sullenly,  as  though  stupefied, 
the  crowd  about  him  gives  way.  Between  them, — 
sword  up  and  head  high,  looking  neither  to  right  nor 
left, — HAFED  leads  out  the  women.  With  a  wild 
cry,  SERJUS  flings  up  his  arms,  with  clenched  fists 
beating  the  air.) 

CURTAIN 


ACT  III 

SCENE:  An  apartment  In  the  CALIPH'S  palace. 
Ceiling  inlaid  with  rare  woods,  supported  on 
pillars  of  silver.  Walls  hung  with  tapestry. 
On  the  right,  a  curtained  alcove.  To  left,  a 
high  and  curving  throne-chair,  covered  with 
tapestry  of  scarlet,  flowered  with  gold.  Enter 
dance-girls  led  by  ILYA,  playing  softly  on  musi- 
cal instruments.  They  seat  themselves  grace- 
fully on  banks  of  cushions,  and  continue  their 
music.  They  are  followed  by  court-chamber- 
lains, nobles,  Magians,  wise  men,  etc.,  preced- 
ing the  CALIPH  and  his  attendant  generals, — 
HILLAL,  HASCHEM,  AD  VAKASS  and  RAMAH. 
Between  their  sumptuous  uniforms,  the 
CALIPH, — middle-aged,  tall,  dark,  and  robed 
in  plain  white, — is  a  striking  figure. 

TIME:     Two  days  later. 

Caliph  (Seating  himself,  while  the  music  stops) — 
Let  our  Princess-guest  and  the  Gheber,  Hafed, 
attend  us !  (  Two  chamberlains,  making  low  rever- 
ences, withdraw.)  (To  the  musicians) — Proceed, 
O  Joy-makers!  (The  music  continues.  To 
RAMAH) — You  have  fetched  the  ore  from  the 
quarry;  help  me  cast  one  die  in  this  metal,  and 
we've  coin  to  pass  us  through  Persia! 
57 


58  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

Ramah  (Bowing  profoundly) — Pardon,  O  Great 
One! — the  metal  is  rarely  unmalleable ;  I  may  in- 
deed heat  it, — thou,  only,  can'st  beat  it ! 

Caliph — He  comes! — (Points  to  the  entrance) — 
By  Mohammed! — I  would  he  were  of  us!  Our 
flags  would  fly  higher — Just  Allah!  (Breaks  off, 
staring,  as  from  the  opposite  side  DARILLA  enters 
with  ZENNA  and  other  attendants.  She  is  richly 
apparelled,  and  sadly  beautiful.) 

Ramah  (Dryly,  aside  to  the  CALIPH) — You  re- 
pent your  protection ? 

Caliph  (Unheeding, — his  eyes  fixed  on  DARILLA) 
— Pearl  of  the  Sea! — Rose  of  the  Dawn!  .  .  . 
(Sharply  catching  RAMAH'S  arm) — Why  had  you 
not  told  me  sooner? 

Ramah  (Stammer in gly) — My  lord ! — I 

Caliph  (Low, — as  DARILLA  and  HAFED  ap- 
proach )  — Present  them  ! 

Ramah  (Advancing,  as  DARILLA  kneels  with  her 
women) — King  of  all  Kings ! — the  daughter  of  SAID 
ALGEDDIN  offers  her  homage. 

Caliph  (Motioning  DARILLA  to  rise, — with 
warmth) — The  daughter  of  that  brave  soldier  hath 
our  love  and  friendship.  Welcome!  (Motions  her 
near  to  a  seat,  piled  with  cushions.) 

Ramah  (Turning  to  HAFED) — And  here,  O 
Chief  of  the  Faithful,  the  Chief  of  GHEBERS  waits 
your  will  and  pleasure. 

Hafed  (With  fervor)— Tine  Lord  forbid  it! 
Heaven's  will,  and  a  bit  of  my  own  pleasure,  is  all 
that  I  wait  here,  believe  me! 

Caliph  (With  dignity) — Heaven's  will  is  our 
will,  and  our  pleasure  may  yet  prove  yours;  where- 
fore, and  for  the  return  of  our  subjects, — welcome! 


ACT  III  59 

(With  a  light  gesture  he  turns  off.  HAFED,  bow- 
ing with  scant-veiled  irony,  flings  himself  at  the  feet 
of  DARILLA.) 

Caliph  (His  glance  sweeping  over  the  group  of 
dance- girls) — Among  these  blossoms,  where's  our 
dainty  thrush? 

Ramah  (Motioning  toward  ILYA) — 'Yonder,  O 
Graciousness 

Caliph — Hither,  sweet  Bird! — and  tune  our 
minds  harmonious.  (She  glides  to  the  CALIPH'S 
feet,  and,  posing  gracefully,  sings  to  her  lute.) 

SONG 

The  Night-Lily  swings  on  a  silver  wave,  a-top  of 

the  turquoise  Sea, — 
And  Love  is  a  swift  gull  cleaving  space  for  a  home 

in  the  heart  of  me. 
Ah,   Love! — find  rest   in   another  breast,   till  the 

winds  of  the  Sidrah-tree 
Shall  waft  him  hither,  who  ne'er  passed  yet  yon 

hill's  blue  boundary! 

Oh,  Dove  of  the  soft-tuned  song ! — full  long  have  I 

mocked  and  railed  at  you, — 
But  the  roses  suddenly  rocked  today,  in  my  yard 

where  a  light  breeze  blew — 
And  I  saw  One  there  with  Sun-bright  hair,  who 

unto  mine  arbor  drew — 
And   his   locks   were  wreathed   with   musk-dewed 

leaves  that  out  of  the  Sidrah  flew ! 

( The  song  finished,  the  girl,  at  a  kindly  nod  from 
OMAR,  returns  to  her  place.) 


60  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

Caliph  (Turning  to  BARILLA) — First  to  the 
lady: — Princess,  approach!  (She  obeys.)  For  thy 
father's  valor,  and  thine  own  virtues, — nested  in 
beauty  as  lilies  in  priceless  porphyry, — we  hold  no 
honor  above  thee;  and  our  bounty  is  boundless. 
Our  care  we  offered, —  (Leans  down  graciously,  his 
hands  extended) — and  our  kingdom  give, — so  far 
as  wife  may  share  it 

Hafed  (Springing  up  as  DARILLA  reels  back, 
aghast )  — Never!  ! 

Caliph  (Coldly) — Your  guardianship  has  ceased! 
(HAFED  starts,  disconcerted.  To  DARILLA)  — 
Speak,  Shy  One! — Shall  the  bosom  of  Omar  not 
shelter  his  chosen  jewel?  (HAFED,  straining  for- 
ward, hangs  on  her  answer.) 

Darilla  (Pale  and  trembling, — brokenly) — Par- 
don, Your  Majesty! — I — I  am  not  worthy 

(HAFED,  with  an  air  of  relief,  straightens.) 

Caliph  (With  ardor)— The  Sun  gilds  that 
which  it  shines  on 

Darilla  (Shrinking  back, — wildly) — Nay, — Nay 
— I  pray  you! — I  cannot! 

Caliph  (Angrily) — Is  the  girl  mad? — Or  is  it  a 
sicklied  coyness? 

Ramah  (Hissingly) — She  has  been  incited  to 
this! 

Hafed  (With  the  bound  of  a  tiger)— To  this) 
— To  what,  my  lord  Ramah? — The  resistance  of 
virtue  to  force? — The  defence  against  craft  of  in- 
nocence ?  Or  if  coyness, — by  Heaven  ! — well  were 
she  coy  of  one-sixth  a  man's  heart, — seeing  how 
five  wives  might  scratch  her! 

Caliph  (Smotheredly,  as  his  officers  clap  hands 
to  weapons) — Stop!  ...  (To  HAFED,  his  face 


ACT  III  61 

wrinkled  with  wrath) — We  spare  you  yet,  for  our 
purposes!  (To  DARILLA,  his  aspect  softening) — 
Cannot! — saidst  thou:  and  wherefore?  Thou  art 
now  thine  own  mistress, — fairest  of  women, — and 
chosen  bride  of  an  Emperor! 

Darilla  (Looking  down, — cheeks  scarlet,  and  fin- 
gers twisting  desperately) — My  lord, — you  know 
not! — I  am  Christian! 

Caliph  (Drawing  back,  horrified) — Christian!— 
(Suddenly  smiling,  he  again  extends  a  hand  to  her.) 
A  casket  of  gems,  the  day  thou  confessest  to  ISLAM  ! 

Darilla  (Sinking  to  her  knees) — Forgive  me,  O 
friend  of  my  father ! — not  even  his  love  could  avail, 
— my  faith  I  must  keep! 

Caliph  (JPith  an  abhorrent  gesture) — Moham- 
med in  heaven ! — The  wench  is  a  shrew  of  iniquity ! 
(In  rage — thunderingly) — Why  art  thou  here? 

Hafed  (Lifting  her,  and  standing  as  thof  he 
would  shield  her) — For  a  broken  faith, — a  refuge 
denied, — hospitality  shamed!  You  have  much  to 
learn  of  the  Ghebers! 

Caliph — And  something  to  teach  them!  .  .  . 
(Quickly,  to  RAMAH, — pointing  a  lean  forefinger 
at  DARILLA.)  She  hath  spurned  both  ourself  and 
our  holy  religion;  how  punish  her? 

Ramah  (Vindictively  eyeing  her) — A  hundred 
stripes  on  the  soles  of  her  feet (DARILLA  ut- 
tering a  cry, — ZENNA  leaps  to  her;  HAFED,  snatch- 
ing at  his  sword,  sees  a  dozen  blades  bar  it, — a  dozen 
bent  forms  over-matching  him,  and  stands  fairly 
at  bay.) 

Ramah  (Continuing — his  gaze  shifted  to  HAFED) 
— And  if  she  persist, — banishment  to  some  island 
tending  to  foster  repentance! 


62  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

Caliph  (Doubtfully) — Ay — 'twere  merited! 

Ramah — Else  Mohammed  were  sunk  to  a  by- 
word,— the  Caliph  mocked  in  his  Court! 

Caliph  (Looking  up,  piously) — 'Tis  the  will  of 
Allah! — So  be  it.  (DARILLA,  wild-eyed,  stands 
motionless.) 

Hafed  (Ringingly) — What! — you  forswear  your- 
self?   (Raises  his  arm  with  a  gesture  so  ter- 
rible, the  CALIPH,  instinctively,  shrinks.)  Honor- 
less  hypocrite! — have  you  no  shame  of  the  world? 
Our  mission  is  known, — betrayal  means  blood  on 
your  head — blood  on  your  hands — and  a  blot  on 
your  fame  neither  legions  nor  time  may  wipe  out! 

You  dare  not! (Again  flash  the  officers' 

weapons, — again  they  are  stayed  by  OMAR,  even  as 
he  chokes  with  anger.) 

Ramah  (Thickly) — Let  him  be  the  scour ger! 

Hafed — Not  though  my  body  be  burned!  (The 
CALIPH,  shaken  with  rage,  motions  DARILLA  back 
to  her  seat.) 

Caliph — We  rest  the  maid's  sentence.  ...  To 
you,  now! 

Hafed — "Our  common  interests"  still  hold 
me! 

Caliph  (On  the  verge  of  another  outbreak) — 
"You! — Chief  and  abettor  of  rebels — you  should  be 
torn  limb  from  limb  and  tortured  of  devils !  (  With 
effort  controls  himself.)  A  lesser  mind  had  so  sen- 
tenced you, — but  the  good  of  our  empire, — the 
wreath  of  our  greater  glory — the  spread  of  our 
faith, — forbid  it,  if  you  may  serve  us.  (As  HAFED 
starts)  Listen!  Our  business  in  Syria  languishes, 
— the  Grecian  dog  lacks  muzzling, — the  fangs  of 
Egypt  drip  rank, — while  you  waste  our  patience. 


ACT  III  63 

Your  cause  is  hopeless;  you  there — (Pointing) — in 
this  instant  are  helpless; — for  love  of  your  coun- 
try, join  us !  Say  the  creed — consent  to  be  our  lieu- 
tenant there!  Your  past  and  your  people's  for- 
given,— your  future  made  golden, — this  maid  shall 
then  go  unwhipped — (HAFED  winces) — and  Persia 
shall  rise  from  her  ashes,  a  radiant  phoenix! 
(Pauses.)  Refuse, —  (His  brows  bend  darkly) — 
and  your  hand  in  this  matter — (With  a  gesture  to 
DARILLA) — more  than  cancels  our  guaranty; — 
Surely  you  die!  (While  he  speaks,  the  face  of 
HAFED  is  swept  with  desperate  emotions,  under 
which  his  very  form  sways.  He  looks  to  DARILLA, 
and  meeting  her  eyes,  looks  off  in  agony.  The 
CALIPH'S  gaze  widens  with  hope.  A  moment  he 
watches  the  quivering  figure  turned  from  him, — 
then,  as  HAFED  wheels  toward  him,  he  bends  for- 
ward expectantly.) 

Hafed  (With  a  motion,  as  though  shaking  a  load 
from  his  shoulders — his  face  transcendent  with  pas- 
sion)— Not  for  the  world! — nor  for  all  worlds, — 
with  the  sky  for  a  carpet — the  sun  my  crown,  and 
the  moon  for  a  foot-ball!  (The  CALIPH  falls 
back,  blankly.  With  heaving  breast,  stretching 
his  hand  toward  DARILLA,  bitterly) — Honor  and 
faith  against  yon  poor  maid  I  pushed  in  your  trap — 
and  Honor  first  under  Heaven !  .  .  .  Yet  I  am  not 
torn  limbless; — O  merciful  CALIPH,  to  wring 
merely  body  from  soul! 

Caliph  (Sardonically) — When  you  sue  for  mercy, 
we  shall  know  to  be  merciful 

Hafed  (Dropping  to  his  knee) — Then  for  her, 
I  pray  mercy  and  gratitude! — In  the  name  of  the 
deeds  of  her  Sire! 


64  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

Caliph    (Frowningly) — Ha! — and  yourself? 

Ha  fed  (Springing  up, — proudly) — /  belong,  as 
ever,  to  Persia! 

Caliph  (Hotly — looking  around  helplessly) — By 
Heaven! — must  I  fight  for  him?  Live  for  your 
Persia ! — live,  I  say,  as  we  showed  you ! 

Hafed — Nay,  I  love  death  better! 

Caliph  (Exasperated) — Then  have  your  love! — 
seize  him!  (With  a  swift  leap,  HAFED  grapples 
the  unprepared  monarch,  and  making  his  body  a 
shield,  bends  it  back,  till  the  throat  lies  under  his 
sword-blade. ) 

Hafed  (To  the  CALIPH'S  officers) — Over  your 
Emperor! — Come!  (Spell-bound  with  horror,  not 
a  soul  stirs.  Side  and  back,  the  high  curving  throne 
rears  its  barricade;  in  front,  the  monarch's  own 
body  hangs,  hazarded  by  a  movement.  With  eyes 
half-starting  the  Court  stares,  breathless.) 

Hafed  (His  sword  at  the  throat  of  OMAR) — 
Swear  before  Heaven  whether  your  message  was 
justified ! 

Caliph  (Quivering  under  the  steel) — Nay! — be- 
fore Heaven! 

Hafed — Whether,  as  far  as  you  know,  I  go  to 
death  true  man  or  traitor! 

Caliph  (Agonized)— True!  True!— by  Mo- 
hammed ! 

Hafed  (Raising  his  sword  and  flinging  off  the 
CALIPH ) — Persia! — my  sword  is  wiped  clean! 
(  There  is,  instantly,  deafening  tumult;  a  dozen  men 
seize  him.) 

Caliph  (Frenziedly,  over  the  uproar, — stagger- 
ing in  the  arms  of  his  officers) — Slay  not! — He 
shall  be  burned!  (A  piercing  scream  from  DARIL- 


ACT  III  65 

LA  rings  over  hoarse  shouts  of  Allah  Acbar!  .  .  . 
Fire  for  the  Fire-Fiend! — Burn  him!  .  .  .  As  the 
guards  are  hurrying  him  out,  DARILLA,  half" 
swooning,  falls  on  her  knees  in  their  way.) 

Barilla  (Wildly)—  Mercy!— Mercy!!— Ye  that 
fought  with  Algeddin,  see! — flesh  of  his  flesh  I 

kneel  to  you ! — Save  him  who  saved,  me ! (  The 

GUARDS,  with  a  glance  half-compassionate,  seek  to 
pass  by.) 

Ha  fed  (Falteringly) — Sweet  Princess,  rise! — 

it  is  useless (As  her  women  tremblingly  raise 

her,  DARILLA,  with  open  arms,  again  bars  the  way, 
— now  facing  OMAR,  but  with  changed  aspect; — 
white  and  stern-faced, — her  slim  figure  straight  and 
austere  in  its  misty  draperies,  she  suddenly  appears 
like  a  beauteous,  avenging  angel.) 

Darilla  (Her  voice  high  and  clear,  as  in  ecstasy) 
— King  of  Arabia! — I  only  am  blamable — burn  me 
in  place  of  this  man ! — He  hath  saved  both  my  life 

and  my  honor To  rescue  the  child  of  your 

general,  he  laid  his  life  on  your  word,  and  risked 
all  his  credit  of  loyalty !  .  .  .  I — I,  only — have  tres- 
passed ! — for,  Caliph  or  Clown,  no  man  can  hold 
faulty  he  that  is  true  to  himself!  (A  hush  falls 
over  the  room.) 

Caliph  (Embarrassed  and  awkward) — You  see 
through  favor's  spectacles — we,  with  clear  eyes. 
(To  her  women,  pointing) — Take  her  yonder  and 
calm  her! 

Ha  fed  (Brokenly,  as  DARILLA  sinks,  crushed,  in 
their  arms) — With  all  of  my  heart,  I  thank  you! 
(Meeting  her  look  of  dumb  anguish,  he  looks  down, 
shuddering.  She  is  led  aside,  and  he  moves  on 
firmly.) 


66  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

Caliph  (Hurriedly, — to  RAMAH) — He  fears  not 
the  fire — will  nothing  humble  him? 

Ramah  (Between  his  teeth, — looking  after 
HAFED) — Ay! — methinks  I  could  reach  him! 

Caliph  (Low) — A  thousand  gold  dinars!  (To 
the  GUARDS  with  HAFED) — Halt  there!  (The  trio 
halt  in  the  doorway.) 

Caliph — Good  RAMAH  repairs  our  oversight; 
(Waving  his  hand  to  RAMAH)  Speak! 

Ramah  (Stepping  forward) — Lest  the  Persians, 
in  spite  to  His  Majesty,  hereafter  pretend  this  a 
martyrdom,  the  Sword  of  God — (Inclining  to 
OMAR) — stays  his  hand  till  the  Ghebers  them- 
selves pronounce  sentence!  (Dramatically.)  His 
own  men  charge  Hafed  with  treachery!  To  es- 
cape trial  he  came, — more  than  to  safeguard  this 
lady — (Motions  to  DARILLA) — a  truce  shall  he 
sent  to  his  captains,  inviting  them  here  to  hold 
trial!  To  prove  his  good  will  for  his  future  sub- 
jects, our  magnanimous  Emperor  hands  over  their 
traitor  redhanded. 

Caliph  (With  folded  hands — piously) — In  the 
hope  of  converting  infidels',  ever  our  purpose! 

Ad  Vakass  (Stepping  out) — I  am  ready:  the 
passport! 

Caliph  (Hastily  drawing  off  and  handing  a  brace- 
let, marked  with  a  jeweled  signet) — Fail  not,  and 
keep  it!  Bring  Gudarz,  Hujir, —  (Turns  inquir- 
ingly to  RAMAH.) 

Ramah — Firouz,  Alzarman,  Jafez,  Amidar, — all 
honorable  judges ! 

Hafed  (Dryly) — Ay! — trap  the  six  and  you 
have  us!  (To  the  CALIPH) — I  beseech  your 
friendliness,  rather  send  me  back  with  what  escort 


ACT  III  67 

you  like,  to  die  at  their  hands  as  you  please, — or 
burn  me  now  out  of  good  will  and  send  them  my 
cinders  for  amulets — they  should  work  quick  con- 
versions,— I  will  bless  your  piety  if  so  this  maid 
and  her  woman  be  sent  free  and  unscathed  from 
your  borders! 

Caliph  (Turning  off  haughtily, — to  AD  VAKASS, 
imperiously) — Go!!  (The  ARAB,  with  a  low 
salaam ,  hurries  out.  To  a  chamberlain) — Hang  the 
GHEBER'S  weapons  in  yonder — (Indicating  the  al- 
cove)— and  guard  him.  (They  divest  HAFED  of 
arms.) 

Caliph  (His  eyes  on  DARILLA) — The  maid 

(Stops,  gnawing  his  beard.) 

Ramah  (In  his  ear) — Joint  guilt — joint  punish- 
ment! 

Caliph  (Sternly)— Without  full  repentance,  will 
at  the  same  time  be  disciplined.  (To  her  attend- 
ants)— See  to  her!  (Touching  his  robe,  with  a 
sinister  glance  at  HAFED — to  RAMAH) — Come! — 
to  cleansing  and  prayer! 

Hafed  (With  a  sudden,  supplicating  movement — 
his  voice  half-stifled) — As  you  hope  Heaven's  an- 
swer, hear  me!  (The  CALIPH,  astonished,  turns.) 

Hafed — You  have  wreaked  your  will, — no  mat- 
ter how, — to  the  fool,  his  folly ! — but  the  dying  have 
sometimes  a  privilege.  .  .  .  My  fault  recoils  on 
this  maid, — hedge  us  round  column-thick,  but  in 
God's  name,  give  me  one  moment  to  privately  speak 
with  her! 

Ramah  (Quickly, — seeing  the  CALIPH  hesitate) 
— Your  Majesty  will  not  countenance 

Caliph  (Unctuously) — God's  Vicar  is  generous! 
— (Picking  up  an  hour-glass,  in  which  the  sands 


68  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

have  run  low,  he  gives  it  to  HAFED'S  guards.) 
Take  this  out,  and  while  the  sands  run,  let  them 
be! 

Ramah — But,  Majesty (The  call  of  the 

muezzin  resounding  without,  the  CALIPH  turns 
suddenly.) 

Caliph — To  prayer! — To  prayer!!  (He  leads 
out,  loftily,  the  rest  of  the  company  following. 
The  GUARDS,  last,  retire  by  the  several  entrances, 
leaving  only  DARILLA  and  HAFED.  She,  white- 
cheeked  and  motionless,  regards  him  dazedly.  He 
takes  a  step  forward  and  stops,  his  eyes  searching 
hers; — twice  he  attempts  to  speak,  but  the  words 
stick  in  his  throat,  and  he  turns  his  quivering  face 
from  her.  Then,  desperately,  he  approaches  her.) 

Hafed  (Low, — voice  and  gesture  full  of  en- 
treaty)— Darilla! — I  am  to  blame.  .  .  .  Forgive 
me! 

Darilla  (With  a  sobbing  breath,  half  wildly) — 
Yow  / — You  are  to  die  for  me! 

Hafed  (Passionately) — I  could  ask  no  death 

sweeter,  if  so  you  were  safe (His  hands  drop, 

clenched,  to  his  sides.) 

Darilla  (Moving  nearer,  amazed) — What! — 
You — who  hate  women 

Hafed  (With  deep  emotion) — I  knew  not  a 
woman  so  brave  and  so  guileless  had  sweetened  the 
world!  .  .  .  Before  you  came,  I  thought  of  Love 
as  an  evil,  mischievous  bird,  sharp  of  beak  and  claw, 
— safe  only  when  leashed  to  Reason  and  handled  by 
its  tamer,  Time.  ...  I  lay  on  a  desert,  afar  from 
the  palms  and  the  water-founts,  deeming  Truth  lost, 
because  I  had  followed  a  mirage.  .  .  .  (Leans  to 
her,  passionately.)  Then,  in  your  face  shone  all 


ACT  III  69 

the  dear  quest  of  my  dreams! — your  voice  called 
like  a  thrush,  and  my  heart  knew  its  mate,  and 
shook  with  its  songs  of  ecstasy.  ...  By  a  magic 
as  old  as  the  universe  my  desert  bloomed  out  more 
fair  than  Delight's  silver  gardens, — more  sweet  than 
with  leaves  of  the  jasmine.  .  .  .  Except  for  these 
walls,  'twere  as  though  you  and  I  had  drifted 
through  sapphire  seas  to  islands  of  Paradise, 
breathing  the  perfumes  of  Heaven  and  drinking  the 
Peris'  music.  .  .  .  For  I  know  that  I  love  you! — 
and  I  pray — Oh,  I  feel — that  you  love  me! 

Darilla — 7  love  you! — yes !  yes ! — I  love  you 

(She  falls  on  his  breast,  weeping  wildly.) 

Hafed — Courage,  love! — listen! — (Lowering  his 
voice) — I  shall  think  of  a  way — there  must  be  a 
way — for  our  rescue !  I  am  hard  to  get  rid  of — you 
were  made  for  good  fortune — There's  always  a  way 
—and  I'll  find  it! 

Darilla  (Looking  up  tearfully) — Ay, (She 

starts  aside  at  a  rustling  of  tapestries.  The  cur- 
tains parting,  the  GUARDS  and  the  women  enter.) 

Hafed  (Meeting  DARILLA'S  look  with  a  forced 
air  of  confidence  as  he  is  led  off) — Remember! 
(With  brimming  eyes,  she  nods  dumbly;  ZENNA, 
weeping  bitterly,  folds  an  arm  around  the  girl,  as 
they  follow  the  waiting-women, — DARILLA  looking 
back  miserably  till  HAFED  is  gone.  Turning,  she 
shrinks  back  on  confronting  RAMAH,  entering.) 

Ramah  (Stepping  in  front  of  her, — peremptorily 
to  the  women) — Wait  without — I  would  spealc 
with  Her  Highness!  (While  they  obsequiously 
withdraw,  the  song-girl,  ILYA,  peers  in  a  side  en- 
trance, and  glimpsing  RAMAH,  unseen,  slips  within, 
hiding  behind  the  great  tapestry.) 


70  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

Ramah  (Motioning  ironically,  where1  HAFED 
went  out) — That's  ended! 

Darilla  (Icily,  while  her  voice  trembles) — The 
worse  for  your  honor,  my  lord. 

Ramah — My  honor's  sum  is, — to  love  you! — 
So  that,  pride  in  the  dust,  I  crawl  back  to  plead 
like  a  slave  for  your  rescue!  I — I,  only, — can  save 
you  from  mortal  disgrace, — and — great  God! — 
{Seeing  her  look) — am  I  a  pestilence? — Then,  turn 
me  by  love!  As  the  horns  of  the  moon  to  her  star, 
I  will  reach  to  your  liking!  Make  me  in  what 
mould  you  will — I  will  kiss  your  hands!  .  .  .  Let 
these  arms  but  defend  you, — this  breast  be  your 
shelter — Shame  shall  pass  from  you,  and  the  wife  of 
Ramah  laugh  overmore  at  fear! 

(With  arms  folded  tight  on  her  bosom,  DARILLA 
draws  back,  shuddering.) 

Darilla — God  save  me  from  love  that  mingles  its 
kisses  with  scourging! — Could  I  ever  have  loved 
you — as  He  knows  I  never  could ! — your  knout  had 
beaten  love  out.  I  will  die  by  scourging — by  axe — 
gibbet — poison! — rather  than  enter  your  life, — for 
I  loathe  you, — even  as  I  love  Hafed,  the  Gheber! 
(Her  voice  rises  passionately.)  Ay,  if  he  die,  I'll 
joy  to  die  with  him — nor  Caliph  nor  Vizir  nor 
any  fiend  on  earth  shall  stay  me  from  his  doom! 
And  so  I  go  to  my  women.  (As  he  stands  stupe- 
fied, she  passes  him  swiftly,  and  is  gaining  the  door, 
when,  with  a  cry  of  rage,  he  springs  after  her. 
The  curtain  swings  back,  and  ILYA  stands  in  his 
way.) 

Ilya  (In  a  low,  thrilling  tone) — Ahmed!  (He 
starts  back  with  clenched  fists,  biting  his  lip. 
DARILLA  goes  out.) 


ACT  III  71 

Ilya  (Reaching  both  hands  to  him, — softly)  — 
She  stabbed  you, — I  wait  to  bind  up  the  wounds! 
(With  a  muttered  imprecation,  he  turns  away  sul- 
lenly. Dropping  her  hands,  her  head  sinks  de- 
spondently; then,  looking  up,  she  timidly  moves  a 
pace  nearer.) 

Ilya  (With  great  sweetness) — I  mind  the  time 
well — though  it  seems  in  some  other  life,  for  you 
were  both  little  and  kind — when,  not  a  thorn  in 
your  thumb,  but  you  crept  through  the  hedge  that 
this  hand  might  pluck  it!  ...  Not  an  early  fig, 
or  choice  comfit,  was  yours,  but  I  had  the  half — 
(Stops,  with  breast  heaving.)  What  flower  but 
love  hath  gratitude? — It  is  long  since  then — I  am 
woman  grown, — and  my  heart  holds  a  thousand 
blooms — only — for  you!  (Starting,  and  still  turned 
away,  he  shrugs  his  shoulders  in  silence.) 

Ilya  (Her  voice  intensified) — I  have  looked  to 
your  love  as  poppies  wait  for  the  sun, — while  indif- 
ference whipped  me  like  wind-swept  stubble!  For 
you  I  have  lived — without  you  I  die, — though  near 

you  my  joy  is  torment.  .  .  .  But  she /  (Shud- 

deringly  points  to  the  door.)  Oh,  we  are  women 
both,  but  like — as  fire  and  ice!  (He  drums  with 
his  fingers  impatiently.)  Though  her  beauty  were 
moulded  in  Paradise,  what  should  it  profit  you  ?  As 
soon  might  blood  run — the  heart  leap — in  shapes  of 
hewn  marble,  as  you  win  a  smile  of  her!  Justice, 
O  Pitiless!  measures  you  scorn  for  scorn!  (Stretch- 
ing out  her  arms,  appealingly, — her  voice  low  and 
broken) — Learn  then  to  pity  me! 

Ramah  (Wheeling  round,  raging  and  scornful) — 
Women  are  ye  both — but  you,  by  that  one, — (Point- 
ing after  DARILLA) — hideous!  (She  shrinks  as  if 


72  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

from  a  blow.)  Have  you  no  glass?  She — is  a  rose 
in  the  dew! — Thou, — shrunken  and  swarth  as  a 
dried  apricot.  .  .  .  Your  bones  might  serve  for  nut- 
picking — not  kisses !  ( With  a  cry  of  anguish  she 
buries  her  head  in  her  arms,  hiding  her  face  in  her 
hair. ) 

Ramah  (^Making  to  pass  her) — Away! — Away! 
— thou  baleful,  bellowing  screech-owl!  (Reaching 
the  door,  turns.)  And  take  for  thy  need,  that  a  round 
cheek  and  a  roguish  eye  are  conquering  weapons 
where  angels  would  weep  and  fail !  (He  strides  out.) 

Ilya  (Sweeping  back  her  long  locks,  gaspingly) 

—Prince  of  Cruelty! (With  a  shriek  she  falls 

headlong,  tearing  at  her  black  hair  wildly.  As 
she  lies  weeping  and  prone,  the  curtains  move 
stealthily,  admitting  the  large  head  and  misshapen 
shoulder  of  the  Court-Buffoon,  ISMIEL.  His  in- 
quisitive look  changes  instantly  to  one  of  distress 
and  compassion.  Closing  the  curtains  behind  him, 
he  softly  steps  in.) 

Buffoon  (Standing  beside  her,- — gently} — 
Princess ! — Why  are  you  grieved  ? 

Ilya  (Raising  her  storm-swept  face  to  look  at 
him, — bitterly) — Mock  me  not  with  dead  titles! 
Child  of  Prince  Sohrab  I  was,  but  now — Scorn's 
daughter!  (Dropping  her  head  on  her  arms,  she 
falls  once  more  a-weeping.) 

Buffoon  (With  feeling) — Behold  then,  thy  fos- 
ter-brother ! — for  if  Scorn  be  not  mine  own  Mother, 
— I  was  early  put  to  nurse  with  her ; — cuffed  awake 
o*  mornings, — kicked  to  bed  o'  nights, — and  jeered 
at  all  day  long;  till  I  grew  bold  enough  to  return 
her  some  stray  licks  and  pinches.  What  can  I  do 
for  thee,  Sister? 


ACT  III  73 

Ilya  (Sitting  up  suddenly  and  speaking  slowly) — 
What  wilt  thou  do  for  me? 

Buffoon — Ask  and  see!  Life,  with  this  twisted 
body,  costs  many  pangs, — Death  but  one;  and  for 
you,  I'll  not  be  particular.  Say  on! 

Ilya  (Springing  upt — low  and  guardedly) — 
Ismiel!  Thou  knowest  full  well  why  I  left  Per- 
sia; that  I  gave  up  home — friends — rank, — my 
world ! — for  the  lot  even  of  singing-girl  in  the 
enemy's  court, — (Her  voice  breaks) — and  the  hope 
of  touching  a  heart  that  was  already  flint!  I  fol- 
lowed Ramah,  and  he  despises  me, — Oh,  mockery 
of  Love!  .  .  .  But  thou — (Glances  about  hurried- 
ly and  speaks  yet  lower) — once  staunchest  of  Per- 
sians, now  apostate  to  Omar, — where  is  thy  heart? 

Buffoon  (Kneeling,  with  arms  outstretched, — 
softly)— Here/ 

(She  recoils,  dismayed.) 

Buffoon  (Rising  hastily) — Nay,  I  hope — ask — 
nothing  of  thee! — to  whom  I,  worthless  within  and 
without,  may  nothing  offer!  I  craved  but  the  light 
of  your  face — and  followed  to  find  it! 

Ilya  (After  a  swift  look  about, — as  before) — 
Then  turn  with  me,  Ismiel! — for,  by  the  God 
above — though  my  body  be  prisoned,  heart  and  soul 
I  fly  this  hour  to  my  country!  (Searchingly) 
You  are  with  me? 

Buffoon — Forever ! 

Ilya  (In  a  whisper, — breathlessly) — Prove  it! 
Since  the  entrance-guards  have  been  doubled,  one 
Arab,  only,  stands  at  the  door  of  Hafed!  'Tis 
Geshem — who  loves  me,  I  think — since  Fate  jests 
with  us  all!  Whisper  him  that  I  wait  him  in  the 
west  arbor:  take  his  place — unbar  the  door,  or 


74  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

force  it — free  Hafed — and — Stay! — When  Kaled 
has  lit  the  lamps  here,  no  one  else  will  pass  shortly. 
Bring  Hafed  here, — take  the  weapons  yonder — 
(Points  to  the  alcove) — Back  of  that  door  is  an 
unused  passage  with  a  low  end-window — one  bound 
puts  you  over  the  hedge — there's  an  old  fountain- 
basin  gone  dry,  with  a  pipe  a  big  man  could  crawl 

through 

Buffoon  (Eagerly) — And  the  pipe  runs  under  the 
wall! 

Ilya — Ay ! — get  without  quickly  and  fly  for  some 
spot  out  of  Persia,  till  the  toils  of  Ramah  be  loos- 
ened. Geshem  shall  hold  his  discovery, — and 
Heaven  help  ye  both!  .  .  .  Save  Hafed! — Save 
him  to  our  country,  Ismiel! — wipe  out  our  recre- 
ance— and  be  first  in  this  poor  heart — (Falteringly) 
— while  my  life — lasts! 

Buffoon  (Joyfully) — For  that,  I  would  roll  the 
world  from  its  axis,  had  I  way,  and  thou  bade  me! 
I  fly  for  thee,  Ilya!  (Going.) 

Ilya — Victory!  Victory,  Ismiel!  (They  hurry 
out  in  opposite  directions.  They  have  scarcely  gone 
when  KALED,  humming  a  rude  air  and  bearing  a  lit 
taper f  enters  and  goes  slowly  lighting  the  lamps.) 

Kaled  (Singing) — 

We  earth-worms  grovelling  in  the  dust, 
Blindly  a-grope  for  drink  or  crust, 

Great  Allah  own: 

Since  not  King  Mahmud  on  his  throne 
May  bind  the  softest  breeze  that  sings, 
Nor  fold  again  the  flow'ret's  wings 

From  Summer  flown. 


ACT  III  75 

(Being  old  and  halt,  several  moments  elapse  ere 
the  spacious  room  is  ablaze  with  radiance  from  the 
many  precious  hanging-lamps.  Near  the  end  of  his 
ditty  HAFED  and  the  BUFFOON  peer  in  from  the 
shadow  of  the  entrance,  R.  When  KALED  has  gone 
they  hasten  in,  a-tiptoe.) 

Hafed  (Low, — hurrying  BUFFOON  to  the  al- 
cove)— Quick! — Arm  and  fly 

Buffoon  (Halting,  astounded) — What!! 

Hafed  (Dragging  out  weapons  from  amongst  the 
Mussulman  uniforms) — The  troops! — Persia — and 
more — depends  on  it! 

Buffoon — Are  you  mad? — Meet  those  six  with 

Ad  Vakass (Motions  as  though  cutting  his 

throat.) 

Hafed  (Arming  and  thrusting  other  weapons  on 
BUFFOON) — We'll  take  a  road  round 

Buffoon  (Dolefully) — Ay, — and  those  left  be- 
hind will  ask  you  in  to  the  fire! 

Hafed — Not  till  they  follow  me  here 

Buffoon  (Falling  back,  open-mouthed) — Om- 
niscient Allah  ! — Back  here? 

Hafed — Dolt! — show  the  way! — the  maid  must 
be  rescued — my  comrades  must  have  fair  play ! 

Buffoon  (Backing  against  the  door) — But — your 
head,  when  your  comrades  condemn  you  ? 

Hafed  (Exasperated) — Bury  it.     Come! 

Buffoon  (Squatting,  legs  crossed,  on  the  floor) — 
Nay,  if  our  noddles  be  lost,  let  us  e'en  save  our 
legs 

Hafed  (Half-frenziedly,  tapping  him  smartly 
with  his  sword) — Rogue! — there  are  times  on  this 
old  topsy-turvy,  when  to  lose  means  to  pluck  from 


76  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

the  peaks  of  Glory  laurels  immortal ;  to  bear  to  the 
shrine  of  the  stars  rich  banners  of  conquest;  to 
carve  on  the  pillars  of  Fame  a  tablet  eternal! 
{Wrenches  open  the  door)  Follow  me!  (Rushes 
out.  The  BUFFOON,  thrown  to  his  feet,  close 
after.) 

CURTAIN 


ACT  IV 

SCENE:  The  CALIPH'S  Court-yard.  In  the  fore- 
ground,  R.,  a  splendid  pavilion,  its  canopy  of 
crimson  brocade,  wrought  with  gold,  is  sup- 
ported by  pillars  of  silver.  On  the  ground 
beneath  is  a  priceless  carpet  of  Persia,  scat- 
tered about  with  silk  and  tapestry  cushions. 
On  the  right  stands  a  resplendent  throne-chair t 
over-hung  with  the  captured  standard  of  Per- 
sia,— the  much- jewelled  Apron  of  Kaweh, — 
surmounted  by  the  flag  of  Arabia.  Conspicu- 
ous on  the  left  is  a  brazen  pedestal,  topped  by  a 
carven  lions  paw,  upholding  a  translucent  stone 
sphere,  glowing  at  its  center  dull-red,  shading 
outward  red-copper. 

In  the  background,  encircling  the  pavilion, 
a  terrace  set  with  flowering  pomegranates  and 
lilies.  To  the  left  a  fountain.  Beyond  the 
grove,  far  away  against  the  horizon,  like  a 
plume  in  the  cap  of  Heaven,  the  silver  and 
azur^e  top  of  Mount  Ohod.  The  CALIPH,  clad 
simply  as  ever  in  white,  is  seen  with  RAMAH, 
HASCHEM,  HILLAL  and  others,  approaching 
the  pavilion  at  rear.  In  the  act  of  entering,  the 
CALIPH  turns. 

TIME:     Three  days  later. 

77 


78  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

Caliph — Friends,  leave  us  here  and  watch,  even 
against  hope,  for  poor  Ad  Vakass; — since  it  would 
seem  this  project  trips,  we  must  take  thought  alone. 
(As  they  withdraw,  he  touches  RAMAH'S  shoulder, 
beckoning  him  within,  and  the  two  enter  hastily.) 

Ramah — Shadow  of  God,  fear  not;  I  would  stake 
this  hand  Ad  Vakass  comes 

Caliph  (With  a  quick  glance  about,  drawing  him 
further) — Think  you  such  fancies  fret  me?  This 
head — (Clasping  it) — for  Vakass'  surety! — and 
that  he  hath  the  Persians  fast  by  the  rope  of  sus- 
picion. .  .  .  Shall  they  trust  Hafed,  who  doubt 
their  dead  mothers? — (Smiling  wryly) — haply  re- 
membering their  lives!  Ad  Vakass  is  safe, — 
(Gloomily) — But  a  raven  croaks  in  our  bosom. 
Look  yonder!  (Glowering,  he  points  to  the  stone 
on  the  pedestal.) 

Ramah  (Glancing, — vaguely)  —  The  Sun- 
ball f 

Caliph  (Anxiously) — See  you  naught  strange 
there? 

Ramah  (Staring) — Nothing,  Sublimity;  unless 
r— long  looking  dulls  it 

Caliph  (Excitedly) — It  pales  each  hour  since  sun- 
rise ! (  RAMAH,  starting,  whitens. ) 

Caliph — From  its  own  blood-color, — like  these 
rubies — (Thrusts  out  a  hand  he-ringed) — this! 

Ramah  (Slowly, — in  a  forced  tone) — Ay, — 'tis 
altered!  .  .  .  What  saith  the  magian,  Behwar? 

Caliph  (Moodily) — That  were  it  a  star,  he 
could  read  it;  or  a  moon,  he  might  prate  wisdom 
wisely;  but  it  being — you  Persians  claim — a  sun- 
stone, — of  mystic  influence,  and,  in  sort,  Destiny's 
weathers 


ACT  IV  79 

Ramah  (Somewhat  haughtily) — It  was  so  held 
by  the  whole  Sassan  dynasty 

Caliph  (Dryly) — Ay! — we  need  your  Persian 
diviner.  'Twas  ill-judged,  killing  him!  (Ap- 
proaching the  pedestal,  stares  down  at  the  stone, 
perplexedly.) 

Ramah  (Following,  uneasily)  —  Tortures, 
Majesty,  could  not  open  his  lips  but  to  the  King 

Caliph  (Turning  searchingly)\ — He  never 
raved ? 

Ramah  (Evasively) — Nay,  only  once  mum- 
bled  

Caliph  (Clutching  his  arm) — Praise  Allah! — 
What? 

Ramah  (Hesitating,  then  forced  to  it,  desperate- 
ly)— "Beware  the  change!"  (Instinctively  both 
glance  to  the  Sun-ball,  which  shows  even  paler.  For 
an  instant  their  eyes  meet,  consternated.) 

Caliph  (Lifting  his  arms  toward  heaven  as  he 
strides  away) — Soul  of  Mohammed! — (His  arms 
drop  despairingly.)  Must  we,  like  bound  and  gap- 
ing fools,  watch  while  this  poison-bloom  swells  into 
fruit, — then  eat  it?  I  am  not  so  moon-mad  as  to 
cheapen  the  power  yonder, —  (Points  without  to  the 
Sun) — and  strangely  since  dawn — (Striking  his 
breast) — hath  my  raven  croaked  of  the 
Gheber (A  trumpet  signals  without.) 

Ramah — Ad  Vakass! (Another  trump  an- 
swers, amid  shouts  of  rejoicing.) 

Caliph  (As  the  noise  approaches, — motioning  to 

the  Sphere) — No  word  of  this! (Ao  VAKASS 

enters,  with  six  PERSIANS,  escorted  by  many  of  the 
CALIPH'S  officers.) 


8o  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

Ad  Vakass  (Throwing  himself  at  the  CALIPH'S 
feet) — Great  OMAR! — late,  but  here! 

Caliph  (Motioning  him  to  rise) — Valor,  not 
Vakass,  is  thy  name  with  Omar!  .  .  .  (Turns  to 
the  PERSIANS)  And  ye,  O  generous  Guests,  shall 
find  your  trust  repaid.  (By  a  gesture  including  all, 
who  have  paused  at  some  distance)  Be  welcome! 

Amidar  (Stepping  forth,  haughtily) — We  come 
not,  O  king  of  Arabia,  to  sup  of  your  courtly 
sweets, — for  our  festal  robes  have  been  torn  into 
swaths  and  shrouds !  We  come  at  your  whim,  se- 
cured by  your  sacred  pledge,  from  a  weeping  Moth- 
erland,— to  wipe  from  her  page  of  heroes  the  name 
of  a  curst  Arch-Traitor.  Say  no  more,  but  produce 
him! 

Caliph  (Smoothly,  to  AD  VAKASS) — Who  is  this 
pepper-pot  ? 

Jafez  (As  eldest,  advancing  proudly) — One  who 
has  seasoned  your  dishes, — whose  faith  burns 
true.  .  .  .  (Beckons  his  other  comrades.) 

Caliph  (Smiling  grimly,  to  RAMAH) — They 
cling  to  the  fire! 

Jafez  (Presenting  all  five) — Amidar,  Firouz, 
Alzarman,  Gudarz,  Hujir, — of  whom,  not  vaunt- 
ing, you  have  heard  ere  now: — (Laying  his  hand  on 
his  breast  and  bowing  profoundly) — Jafez,  your 
servant, — not  your  subject! 

Caliph  (fervently) — I  would  to  Heaven  ye 
knew  my  heart  toward  you ! — Ye  might  disclaim  me 
less  harshly.  I  would  not  only  give  you  this  traitor, 
but  cure  your  sick  country  through  honorable 
peace 

Amidar  (Quickly) — She  chooses  more  honorable 
death ! 


ACT  IV  8 1 

Caliph  (Blandly,  to  the  fest) — I  appeal  to  you, 
— cool  him,  lest  we  all  smoke ! 

Gudarz  (Half -derisively,  slapping  AMIDAR  on 
the  back) — Ha! — Take  you,  and  give  not? 

Caliph  (As  AMIDAR  turns  off  sullenly) — 'Twere 
Kinglier  to  give  all! — and  so  would  I 

Hujir  (Determinedly) — Just  give  us  Hafed! 

Caliph — Ay, — Ay — only  first  hear  me: — You 
think  we  have  bled  our  people — braved  your  hatred 
— for  some  alms  of  conquest? — We  need  not  nor 
want  them,  save  to  spread  the  Stream  of  True 
Waters 

Alzarman — Hafed  first,  and  talk  after! 

His  comrades  (In  chorus) — Hafed  first!  .  .  . 
He  shuffles!  .  .  .  Where  s  Hafed? 

Caliph    (Vexedly,  to  an  officer) — Go  fetch  the 

Gheber — Ha! (At   a   sound   of    commotion 

all  turn;  from  the  rear,  GESHEM  rushes  in,  breath- 
less.) 

Geshem  (Wildly, — dropping  at  OMAR'S  feet) — 
Slay — slay  me! — The  Gheber! — (His  voice  fail- 
ing)— gone!  (A  very  howl  of  rage  rises;  every 
blade  leaps  forth,  threatening.) 

Caliph   (Hoarsely) — Gone! — and  thou  livest? — 

Geshem  (Beseechingly) — Hear  me — then  slay! 
...  At  sunset  yesterday, — I  still  on  guard — 
Ismiel,  thy  fool,  ran  up — in  thy  name  took  my 
place — bidding  me  mount  and  speed  as  wind  to  halt 
Ad  Vakass,  and  turn  back  these  Persians.  .  . 
Flying  to  thy  will, — from  road  to  road,  within  a 
half-league  of  the  Gheber  camp,  distraught  I  tore 
— to  find  at  last  he'd  passed  me !  .  .  .  Rushing  back 
and  up  the  passage — (Gasps,  shuddering) — Allah 


82  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

receive  me! — Ismiel  was  vanished! — Hafed  gone! 
(As  though  overcome,  falls  prostrate.) 

The  Persians  (Stormily,  over*  the  prostrate  Arab) 
— Treason!  A  treason!! 

Caliph  (Fiercely)  —  Treason — ?  Treason — / 
Haroot  and  Maroot! — Devil's  magic,  say! — Or — 

stop! (To  RAMAH)  —  The  fool  —  this 

Ismiel 

Ramah — A  Persian  convert  of  the  Devil's 
own! 

Caliph  (Trembling  with  rage, — to  the  GHEBERS) 
— Ay! — there's  your  treachery! — the  Persian  brand 
— that  sells  a  sovereign — turns  again  and  sells 

The  Ghebers  (Springing  toward  him) — Dog! — 
Villain  !  !— Demon!!! 

The  Arabs  (  Turbulently,  while  those  nearest  the 
GHEBERS  clutch  with  them) — A  plot!  .  .  .  'Way 
with  the  truce! — a  plot!! (In  the  ensuing  up- 
roar, while  the  PERSIANS  make  desperate  defence, 
GESHEM,  unnoticed,  crawls  off.) 

Caliph  (Shouting  over  the  din,  to  his  men) — 
The  truce  is  dead! — your  honor  lives! — Lay  on! 
(The  frenzy  quickens.  By  force  of  numbers,  the 
PERSIANS  are  overpowered). 

Caliph  (Hastily) — Bind  them  and  hear  me! 

(The  prisoners,  more  or  less  wounded  and  bleed- 
ing, are  quickly  shackled  together,  save  AMIDAR, 
who,  at  the  CALIPH'S  feet,  lies  mortally  hurt  and 
expiring. ) 

Caliph  (Scathingly,  to  the  GHEBERS) — O, 
spawn  of  Treachery! — With  your  lep'rous  tricks, 
thought  ye  to  fool  us?  We  gave  you  honest  truce 
to  gain  your  traitor, — but,  by  the  fiend! — 'tis  ye, — 
ye,  only,  stole  him  and  pushed  here,  bent  upon  death 


ACT  IV  83 

and  slaughter!  Your  game  is  lost.  .  .  .  (Waves 
his  hand  to  the  GUARDS)  Behead  them!  (As 
amidst  loud  cries  of  approval,  the  guards  start  out 
with  the  PERSIANS,  a  shadow  falls  in  the  pavilion.) 

Caliph  (To  RAMAH) — Even  the  day  seems 

darker  for  these  swine (A  startled  cry,  and, 

in  the  same  breath,  excited  exclamations,  cause  the 
CALIPH  and  RAMAH  to  turn; — a  sudden  dimness 
of  the  sun  is  discernible  without,  while  everywhere 
spreads  a  cold  shadow.) 

Caliph  (fls  though  by  an  inexplicable  impulse 
looking  to  the  Sun-ball  and  finding  it  colorless 
gray) — Allah! — (Catching  RAMAH'S  arm,  points) 
— See  you  it?  What 

Several  Voices  (In  awe-stricken  tones) — The 
Sun!— The  Sun!— Allah  Ilallah!—the  sky!! 

( They  are  echoed  without  by  the  screaming  and 
shrieking  of  women.  As  though  withdrawn  from 
the  heavens,  the  Sun  has  faded  from  sight  and  a 
shadow  of  twilight  fallen,  which  gradually  deep' 
ens.  Terrified  and  groaning,  the  company  falls  on 
its  knees,  save  the  GHEBERS  in  bonds,  whom  the 
guards,  fleeing  to  the  feet  of  the  CALIPH,  leave 
standing  apart.  The  screams  without  growing  near- 
er, the  darkness  is  filled  with  shrieking  figures  of 
women  rushing,  frantic,  in  the  pavilion.  Then  over 
all  settles  a  mid-night  Darkness.  Into  the  murky 
sky,  glimpsed  beyond,  a  star  here  and  there  trem- 
bles palely.  The  pavilion  resounds  with  groaning. 
Suddenly,  dread  as  thunder,  from  the  Court-walls 
beyond,  sounds  deafening  crash  after  crash,  fol- 
lowed by  a  terrible  tumult  of  noise,  like  the  crum- 
bling of  mighty  stones  and  the  fury  of  drums  in 
battle.  All  other  sounds  drown; — only  in  the  black- 


84  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

ness  of  the  pavilion  the  crouching  forms  show 
vaguely ,  swaying  like  souls  in  torture.  The  pande- 
monium grows  nearer;  the  pavilion  fills  with  a  noise 
of  trampling  and  clank  of  metal;  then,  the  noise 
suddenly  ceasing,  there  is  a  moment  heavy  with  si- 
lence, while  the  darkness  gradually  lifts,  and,  amid 
a  loud  blare  of  trumpets,  the  sun  shines  forth  un- 
obscured.  The  noonlight  streams  through  the  win- 
dow on  a  strange  scene.  Sternly  facing  the  half- 
prostrate  CALIPH,  in  front  of  the  shackled  PER- 
SIANS, stands  HAFED,  sword  drawn,  at  the  head  of 
a  large  body  of  GHEBERS,  armed  to  the  teeth.  At 
HAFED'S  right  hand  stands  SERJUS,  next  him, 
ROBIER.  Trapped  and  surrounded,  the  bewildered 
ARABS  show  quite  overwhelmed,  and  with  eye- 
balls starting,  men  and  women  stare  horror-struck. 
In  a  corner  aside,  clasped  in  each  other  s  arms,  kneel 
DARILLA  and  ZENNA, — the  girl  hugging  tight  to 
her  bosom  the  cross.  The  Sun-ball  shoius  utterly 
dark.  For  one  hushed  and  motionless  instant  all 
seems  a  fantastic  picture.  Then  the  CALIPH,  cow- 
ering, raises  himself  and  stretches  a  shaking  hand 
toward  HAFED.) 

Caliph  (Faltering, — as  one  in  a  dream) — What 
— wouldst — thou  ? 

Hafed  (Roundly) — Everything! (DARIL- 
LA, springing  up,  leans  forward,  her  face  luminous, 
expectant.  The  CALIPH  draws  back,  shrunken  to- 
gether. The  ARABS  with  a  feint  of  protection  rise  to 
their  feet.) 

Hafed — But,  by  your  admirable  example, — "first 
to  the  lady!" 

Darilla  (Impetuously  meeting  him  as  he  strides 


ACT  IV  85 

toward  her, — her  voice  between  laughter  and  sob) 
—Hated!— Hero  I 

(Radiantly  he  leads  her  back  to  his  former  place. 
Motioning  his  men,  they  cut  the  bonds  of  their  com- 
rades. The  CALIPH  regards  him  shudderingly,  as, 
stooping  to  feel  of  AMIDAR'S  heart  and  finding  it 
still,  he  rises,  once  more  stern-faced.) 

Hafed  (With  a  pitying  gesture,  as,  at  his  sign, 
the,  body  is  gently  borne  out) — Such  losses  are  dearly 
bought  with  even  a  nation's  peace, — and  we, — are  a 
handful!  But,  praise  Heaven! — the  time  is  past 
for  a  barter.  We  demand — not  plead, — and  you, 
O  CALIPH,  may  no  more  deny  us!  Much  of  Per- 
sia lies  dead, — more  writhes  in  your  clutch, — but 
from  this  hour  on,  a  moiety  of  her  bruised  borders 
is  free  of  your  heel  and  Mohammed's!  (The 
GHEBERS  cheer  loudly.  The  CALIPH  shrinks  fur- 
ther.) Our  unconquered  remnant  shall  live  as  they 
list — pray  as  they  please — and  swear  by  what  proph- 
et they  fancy — (Raising  his  sword) — so  help  me 
Heaven!  (The  GHEBERS,  whirling  high  their 
weapons,  cheer  wildly.  DARILLA  softly  kisses  her 
cross — while  her  eyes,  misty,  yet  a-light,  shine  upon 
HAFED.) 

Caliph  (Tremblingly) — We  would  not  deny 
you 

Hafed  (Snatching  from  his  bosom  a  parchment 
and  thrusting  it  before  the  eyes  of  the  CALIPH) — 
On  my  soul  you  will  not ! — For  reminder — there  at 
the  bottom  is  a  little  space — write  in  it,  "Omar"! 
( Thrusts  into  the  CALIPH'S  hands  a  reed  dipped  in 
ink,  proffered  by  the  BUFFOON,  who  has  held  it 
and  the  ink-vessel,  ready.  The  CALIPH,  after  a  des- 


86  HAFED  THE  PERSIAN 

perate  look  around  him,  takes  the  paper,  and  shak- 
ingly  signs.) 

Caliph  (With  an  effort  at  composure,  to  his  peo- 
ple, as  HAFED  receives  back  the  parchment) — 
Friends  all, — in  yon  late-blackened  sky  methought 
we  saw  great  Allah's  frown; — (Points  to  the  still- 
darkened  Sun-ball) — that  sacred  sign  confirms  us; 
— (Spreads  out  his  hands,  unctuously) — Bend  to 
Heaven!  .  .  .  (The  GHEBERS,  with  significant 
looks  at  their  weapons,  smile  grimly;  the  ARABS 
bow  low  in  submission.)  For  ourself, — (Looks  up- 
ward piously) — weary  and  war-sick,  we  crave  no 
other  than  this  cup  of  Peace!  (Seeming  suddenly 
aged  and  ghastly,  he  sinks  into  the  throne-chair,  a 
helpless  huddle.) 

Ramah  (Defiantly) — But  I, — will  cleanse  the 
Cup!  (Lunges  furiously  at  HAFED'S  throat. 
DARILLA,  with  a  cry  of  terror,  springs  forward.) 

Hafed  (Putting  her  back,  and  with  wondrous 
agility  parrying, — to  RAMAH) — Beware  my  proph- 
ecy! 

Ramah  (His  eyes  grown  murderous,  thrusting 
with  lightning  swiftness) — False  prophet! — 
Ah-h-h!  (HAFED,  being  forced  to  strike  out, 
RAMAH  is  pierced  to  the  heart,  and,  groaning,  falls 
dead  at  the  feet  of  OMAR, — his  face  being  hid  in 
the  CALIPH'S  mantle.  With  a  shriek,  ILYA  bounds 
forward  and  frenziedly  clasps  him.) 

Ilya  (Frantically)  —  Ahmed!  —  Ahmed!! 
(Snatching  at  a  tiny  scent-bottle  hung  on  her  bosom, 
even  as  the  BUFFOON  and  DARILLA,  with  startled 
cries,  spring  to  her,  she  swallows  its  contents.) 

Ilya  (Gaspingly, — her  form,  supported  by  the 
BUFFOON  and  GESHEM,  growing  rigid, — her  face 


ACT  IV  87 

wildly  seeking  the  dead  man) — Ahmed! — we  drink 
— the  Cup — of  Peace!  (Lifeless,  her  head  falls 
back  on  the  BUFFOON'S  bosom.) 

(DARILLA  tearfully  kisses  her  brow  as  the  BUF- 
FOON, groaning  in  anguish,  is  assisted  by  GESHEM 
to  bear  out  his  woeful  burden,  amid  the  sobs  of  the 
women  and  the  pitying  glances  of  all.) 

Ha  fed  (Half -compassionately,  as  others  follow 
with  the  body  of  RAMAH) — Poor  wretch! — Fate 
would  not  be  juggled!  (Stepping  to  the  side  of 
DARILLA,  he  turns  gravely  to  the  GHEBERS.) 

Hafed  (Raising  his  hand,  solemnly) — Comrades 
who  touch  hands  with  Freedom, — all  is  not  finished ! 
When  ye  followed  me  here,  I  was  under  your  ban, 
and  I  swore  when  our  business  was  through  to  abide 
by  your  sentence 

The  Ghebers  (With  mighty  shouts  drowning  his 
voice) — Lead  us!  Lead  us  still!  Hero!!  .  .  . 
HAFED  forever! 

Hafed  (His  head  high  with  a  look  of  proud  joy, 
— his  voice  a-thrill  with  emotion) — Brothers-in- 
arms, in  my  dreams  I  shall  always  lead  you, — all  my 
days  I  shall  love  you, — but  the  march  is  done,  and 
home  beckons.  ...  In  your  ears  are  the  hymns  of 
Victory;  in  mine, — song-sweet  down  the  distance, 
the  voice  of  my  Mother,  France!  .  .  .  Long  has 
she  called  me  unheeded,  but  today  I  yearn  for  her 
face, — and  tomorrow,  please  God!  I  shall  turn  to 
her  bloom-bright  shores  with  the  orient-treasure — 
(Lifting  DARILLA'S  hand,  he  clasps  it  firmly,  smil- 
ing the  while  at  her  blushes) — ordained  of  the 
stars  for  the  Gheber! 

CURTAIN 


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